places to visit south wales uk

The 35 Best Places To Visit In South Wales: 2024 Guide

South Wales is a broad region of Wales which spans from the Bristol Channel and the border of England in the east, mid-Wales to the north and to the Welsh coast in the west.

South Wales is the most densely packed area of Wales since it contains several of the biggest cities, such as Cardiff, Swansea and Newport. The Brecon Beacons National Park (Bannau Brycheiniog) makes up roughly one third of the region, the highest peak of which is Pen y Fan. At the very bottom of South Wales is the vibrant capital city of Cardiff.

On a trip to South Wales, visitors can expect to explore natural wonders such as caves, waterfalls and mountains and see historical sites such as castles, abbeys and manors. There are cities to visit, national parks to hike and wildlife to spot.

This is a locals guide to the best places to visit in South Wales.

Disclaimer:  Some links in this article are affiliate links, which means that if you purchase through them I receive a small commission, at no extra cost to you. This helps cover the cost of running this blog. Thanks for your support!

What and Where Is South Wales?

Wales can be broadly broken up into three areas: North Wales, Mid-Wales and South Wales. The counties of Pembrokeshire and Carmarthenshire in southwest Wales, I would technically describe as West Wales and the town of Brecon is in the county of Powys, which is technically mid-Wales.  

However, to keep things simple and for the purpose of this travel guide, I will loosely refer to South Wales as the whole bottom third of the country.

Why Visit South Wales?

For a very small area, South Wales crams in a vast array of things to see and do, including two National Parks. There are ancient Neolithic structures, Gothic Abbeys and a multitude of castles. South Wales is home to the largest city in Wales and the smallest city and Wales, with many more towns and villages in between.

In the Brecon Beacons National Park (Bannau Brycheiniog) there are caves to explore, secret waterfalls to discover and mountain peaks to climb. In Pembrokeshire Coast National park there are sandy beaches on which to relax, rugged coastlines to wander and an abundance of marine wildlife to spot.

As someone who grew up in the valleys of South Wales I am no doubt biased. In my childhood I spent weekends exploring the hills of the Brecon Beacons around my grandmothers farm, enjoyed family holidays on the beaches of Pembrokeshire and went to school in a 19th century castle. All pretty idyllic! 

However, after reading this guide, hopefully you too will agree that South Wales has something for everyone, on any occasion!

How To Get To South Wales

If arriving on public transport, the easiest place to start your South Wales road trip will be in Cardiff, as the capital is well linked to other major cities in the UK such as London, Birmingham and Bristol.

South Wales is easily accessible from London by either bus or train. From London there are direct trains and buses to Cardiff and Swansea multiple times per day.

Travel to South Wales is also straight forward from the midlands, with trains and buses running multiple times per day from Birmingham to Cardiff.

🚌 WHERE CAN I BUY THE CHEAPEST BUS AND TRAIN TICKETS?

If you are looking for the cheapest bus and train ticket, then I highly recommend you to choose Busbud , an online platform that has compiled the world’s largest selection of bus/train tickets. Wherever you’re traveling, you can easily compare tickets from different companies and book the best option for your next trip.

BUY YOUR TICKETS HERE

Cardiff also has an International Airport, so a South Wales road trip can start the moment you get off the  the plane! Find top deals on flights here.

Many of the places on this list of the best things to see in South Wales are in rural areas, so a car is the easiest way to reach these remote locations. Discover Cars is a car rental comparison site that offer great deals on car rentals ensuring you get the best price.

35 Top Places To See In South Wales

Listed roughly in order from east to west, here are my top places to visit in South Wales.

1. Tintern Abbey

Located next to the village of Tintern, on the banks of the river Wye, is Tintern Abbey. This British Gothic masterpiece was originally founded in 1131 by Cistercian monks, however the ruined remains left today were constructed a century later.

The Abbey was abandoned after Henry VIII’s dissolution of the monasteries but found new life as a tourist attraction thanks in part to poems by William Wordsworth.

Marvel at this architectural icon up close and then walk a section of Offas Dyke to get views from the Devil’s Pulpit. For more information on this walk and other things to do around Chepstow, see this guide .

2. The Black Mountains

A dedicated National Park since 1957, Bannau Brycheiniog (the Brecon Beacons) spreads across the central region of South Wales and is made up of four different areas. One of these areas is The Black Mountains, which makes up the eastern range of the Brecon Beacons.

The most popular hike in the Black Mountains is to the summit of Sugarloaf , however other great hikes in the area include Skirrd Fawr , Blorenge , Hay Bluff and the Waun Fach .

If you’d prefer not to hike a mountain, you can take the low-level option of walking the Monmouthshire-Brecon Canal. Finish your walk beautiful South Wales walk with a delicious meal at the Coach and horses pub in Llangynidir.

3. Llanthony Priory

Llanthony Priory is a ruined Augustinian priory located in a quiet valley of the Black Mountains. The surrounding ridges provide great hiking opportunities and the priory is even home to a hotel if you fancy stopping for the night.

This ruined priory comes complete with a cellar bar, which means after a busy day of sightseeing or hiking, you can kick back and enjoy a pint on a pew!

For a guide to walks from Llanthony Priory, see this post.

4. Blaenavon Ironworks And The Big Pit

South Wales has a big coal mining history and played an important part in the Industrial Revolution. Blaenavon, a town on the edge of the Brecon Beacons (Bannau Brycheiniog), was a leading producer of iron and limestone which was distributed all over the world. 

At the Ironworks visitors can see 18th and 19th century furnaces, kilns, railway systems and workers cottages. The Big Pit National Coal Museum was a working coal mine from 1880 to 1980 and today this heritage museum offers underground tours to see what life was like for thousands of coal miners.

Blaenavon’s importance in the Industrial Revolution has been recognised by UNESCO who inscribed it as a World Heritage Site in 2000, so be sure to add it to your South Wales itinerary. 

5. Hay-on-Wye

Hay-on-Wye is a small market town in the County of Powys, close to the English border. As a teenager my mum and I would take regular visits to Hay-on-Wye on the hunt for interesting or unusual books.

Today Hay-on-Wye has over twenty bookstores to keep literary lovers enthralled. But a visit to Hay-on-Wye is as much about the buildings that house the books, as it is about the books themselves. The book stores vary from castles to boutique stores, to simple book shelves on the streets. The town also has a medieval castle which has been fabulously restored – don’t miss the unique film about Hay-on-Wye in the castle basement!

Every year Hay-on-Wye hosts the Hay Festival of Literature and Arts, aka the Hay Festival. This festival lasts for 10 days and was described by Bill Clinton as the “Woodstock of the mind.”

If you plan your visit for a Thursday you can also enjoy Market Day, a tradition that has been running in the town for hundreds of years. In the market you can find books (of course), antiques and locally produced food.

For a complete guide to all the things to do in Hay-on-Wye, see this post .

Need somewhere to stay? For a delightful glamping experience, try  GoldenValley Shepherds Huts .

Located at the northern edge of the Brecon Beacons (Bannau Brycheiniog) is the picturesque market town of Brecon. The town is steeped in history dating back to the Norman times. The high street is a delight wander along with an inviting range of shops and cafes to explore. Be sure to take some time to visit the towns 12th century Cathedral.

Brecon marks the start of the previously mentioned Monmouthshire-Brecon canal and is a great base for enjoying more Brecon Beacons hikes. To discover more things to do in the Brecon Beacons, see this guide . In the summer, Brecon is also home to the Brecon Jazz festival which is a fabulous opportunity to soak up some jazz music.

7. The Central Brecon Beacons

The Central Brecon Beacons contain several of the biggest peaks in South Wales and indeed Southern Britain. At the heart of the Beacons is Pen y Fan, the highest and most popular mountain to hike .

If you prefer to escape the crowds, there are plenty of other mountains to hike in this area, which you can read about here . If you’d like quiet option with a little bit of history, try the Waun Rydd and the Wellington Bomber Memorial Loop .

Now Available

Bannau Brycheiniog Hiking Routes

Hiking routes include the ever popular Pen y Fan, Llyn y Fan Fach, Sugar Loaf and the Four Falls.

Enjoy 35 beautiful hikes in Bannau Brycheiniog (the Brecon Beacons) with the help of my pre-planned hiking routes. I have 35 beautiful hiking trails marked out on the free, offline app Maps.me. Simply download my pins into the app and choose which one of these epic hikes you’d like to enjoy!

Prefer not to walk alone? If you’re looking for a Mountain Leader to guide you on a mountain adventure, please contact me here to discuss rates and availability.

8. Merthyr Tydfil

Merthyr Tydfil is another town in South Wales which played an important part in the Industrial revolution. However, today Merthyr has reinvented itself as a mecca for outdoor sports.

Merthyr Tydfil is conveniently located on the outskirts of the Beacons, just 10 miles from Pen y Fan. This makes it a suitable base for exploring the Central Beacons. On the edge of town visitors can also find Dolygaer Outdoor Pursuits Centre, Rock UK Climbing Centre and Bike Park Wales, the leading centre for mountain biking in the UK.

Other activities to enjoy in Merthyr include visiting Cyfarthfa Park to explore the 19th castellated mansion, taking a ride on the Brecon Mountain Railway and visiting Penderyn Distillery to taste award-winning single malt whiskies.

Merthyr Tydfil also happens to be my hometown and for that reason is a top South Wales place to visit 😉

For a complete guide to visiting Merthyr Tydfil, click here .

9. Castell Coch

In case you didn’t already know, Wales is home to a lot of castles. Over 600 in fact. Many are in ruin whilst others still stand in their full splendour. One of the more unique castles in South Wales is Castle Coch (Red Castle).

With its conical roofs and circular towers, this castle truly looks like something out of a Fairytale and is affectionately known by many as the Fairytale Castle . Wander the surrounding grounds of Fforest Fawr before purchasing your ticket to explore inside.

10. Caerphilly Castle

The next castle on this list is Caerphilly Castle, a mighty medieval fortress constructed in the 13th Century. However, this is no ordinary castle, this is the biggest castle in Wales and the second biggest in the UK (Second only to Windsor – you win Charles!).

You’ll need time to explore the massive walls, towers and hidden passageways of Caerphilly Castle but as a Welsh icon it’s definitely one to add to your South Wales list of things to see. Plus it’s got a moat and a tower which leans more than Pisa, which makes it extra cool in my opinion!

TOURS TO CAERPHILLY CASTLE

• Day Tour – Castles, Mountains & More (from $92.94, what to expect: Cardiff Castle (Pass By), Castell Coch, Caerphilly Castle, Brecon Beacons National Park, Brecon)
• The Wandering Bard Tour of South Wales (from $87.13, with the company of a historian, and native Welsh speaker, who is passionate about the country; included: Caerphilly Castle, Tintern Abbey, Chepstow Castle)
• Private Day Tour of South Wales, including Cardiff & Caerphilly Castle (from $220.74)

11. St Fagans National History Museum

Ah St Fagans, the destination for many a school trip in my childhood! St Fagans National History Museum is the place to visit if you want to see what rural life in Wales was like before the Industrial Revolution. It’s a truly great South Wales attraction for families.

This open air museum chronicles the historical culture, lifestyle and architecture of Welsh people. Set in the grounds of St Fagans Castle, the museum consists of more than 40 re-erected buildings from across Wales. The museum holds displays of traditional crafts such as weaving and milling and has a small working farm dedicated to preserving native Welsh breeds. 

12. Cardiff

Not all capital cities are worth a visit but Cardiff most certainly is. Cardiff is a vibrant city which has a little something for everyone and makes it one of the best places to visit in South Wales.

At the centre of the city there is (of course!) a castle.  Opposite Cardiff Castle you can find the Victorian Arcades which are filled with boutique shops. Join this  Alleyways and Avenue Tour  to find the best spots. The nearby streets are filled with restaurants and bars which offer a great night out, especially after a Welsh rugby match! 

For an exploration of the seafront head out to Cardiff Bay Barrage, which is Europe’s largest waterfront. If you’re looking for adventure here, try white water rafting or indoor surfing at Cardiff International White Water. The Bay is also home to the Senedd and is therefore the beating heart of Welsh Politics.

If you’re a Doctor Who fan, you’ll know Cardiff is where this series is filmed and during your visit you can embark on your very own Doctor Who tour ! 

EXTEND YOUR STAY IN CARDIFF, CHECK TOP PLACES TO STAY THERE BELOW

• Radisson Blu Hotel, Cardiff (⭐4, located in the heart of Cardiff, $)
• Future Inn Cardiff Bay (⭐4, located 1.2 miles from city center, $$)
• Park Plaza Cardiff (⭐4, located in the heart of Cardiff, $$)

13. Barry Island

Barry Island (Ynys y Barri) is a seaside town in the Vale of Glamorgan. Contrary to the name, Barry Island isn’t actually an island but is in fact a peninsula. Barry Island rose to fame thanks to the TV show Gavin & Stacey, but in its heyday the Pleasure Park was the place to be.

So what’s occurring in ‘Barrybados’ then? Well Gavin and Stacey fans, can go behind the scenes in this half day tour and visit familiar locations such as Uncle Bryn’s house and the arcade where Nessa worked.

For everyone else, a visit to Barry should include a visit to the somewhat dilapidated Pleasure Park, relax on the sandy beach of Whitmore Bay or head to Goodsheds, a revamped dockyard filled with boutique shops and artisanal traders. Oh, and they also have craft beer. Tidy!

14. Glamorgan Heritage Coast

The Glamorgan Heritage Coast spans for 14 miles from Porthcawl to Aberthaw. The rugged cliff-lined coast offers spectacular views over secluded coves and rocky beaches and gives plenty of opportunity from which to observe the second largest tidal range in the world.

The dramatic coastline is perfect for hikers and bikers with miles of footpaths, country roads and plenty of small towns and villages to stop for a break along the way. Wales is spoilt for choice when it comes to beautiful coastlines and the Glamorgan Coast tends to get overlooked. However this a top South Wales beauty spot to add to your bucket list.

Don’t miss Dunraven Bay and Nash Point.

15. Waterfall Country

Wales has an abundance of waterfalls and since the country receives so much rain every year, they are often flowing at full pace. Many of Wales’ most beautiful waterfalls are spread out around the country, however there is one area in South Wales which has more waterfalls per square mile than anywhere else in the country.

This area, known as Waterfall Country, is a beautiful South Wales destination to visit.

In Waterfall Country there are several  waterfall trails to enjoy , including the fabulous Elidir Trail , however the most popular is the Four Falls Trail. On this walk you can visit four waterfalls and at the final fall, Sgwd yr Eira, there is the option to walk behind the powerful cascade.

For more information on the  4 falls trail, take a look at this guide , alternatively discover Pen y Fan’s secret waterfall in this guide .

16. National Showcaves Centre (Dan-Yr-Ogof)

Another top destination in South Wales for families is the National Showcaves Centre. In fact these caves have won so many tourism awards it’s a top South Wales destination for everyone. You can even get married in the caves!

There are several caves to explore here with impressive stalactites, stalagmites and underground lakes. But it’s not just about the caves, there is also a dinosaur park, Iron Age farm, Shire horse centre and  museum.

You must book your tickets online before you go which you can do here .

For the ultimate two week road trip itinerary around Wales, take a look at this guide.

17. Llyn y Fan Fach And The Western Beacons

Llyn y Fan Fach is a glacial lake in the Black Mountain region of the Brecon Beacons (Bannau Brycheiniog). This region of the Beacons (also known as the Carmarthen Fans) offers breathtaking examples of glacially formed cwms (valleys), lakes and escarpments.

The most dramatic of which is Llyn y Fan Fach, Llyn y Fan Fawr and their surrounding peaks.

There are multiple hiking options to view these lakes which you can read about in this guide . These hikes are, for me, the best the Brecon Beacons has to offer, making them one of the best things to do in South Wales.

The Carmarthen Fans are also the location for several aircraft crash sites, most notably the Wellington Bomber on Carreg Goch and the Vampire jet on Fan Hir .

18. The Mumbles

The Mumbles is a headland and village on the western edge of Swansea City. At Mumbles you can stroll along the Victorian Pier, explore the medieval castle (Oystermouth Castle) and if the tide is right, walk out Mumbles lighthouse. 

You should probably eat some fish and chips whilst you wander the promenade and you should definitely try some ice cream from Joe’s Ice Cream Parlour !

19. The Gower Peninsula 

Further around the coast from the Mumbles you can explore the Gower Peninsula. This was the UK’s first Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and on a visit to this rugged peninsula you’ll quickly discover why. There are cliff-edged hikes to explore, beautiful beaches to relax on and multiple water sports to enjoy.

Located at the far end of the peninsula, Rhossili beach has been voted one of the top 10 beaches in the world and I’d certainly recommend a visit. If the tide is right, venture out onto the tidal island of Worm’s Head. 

There are many beautiful hikes in the Gower, the best of which I describe in this guide . The Gower is also popular with surfers and coasteerers. Both super fun activities but brace yourself for the cold waters!

Other top things to do in the Gower include relaxing at the picturesque 3 cliffs Bay, searching for the Blue Pool in Broughton Bay and walking out to Whiteford Lighthouse (at low tide only).

For all the best beaches on the Gower, take a look at this article .

South Wales has many pretty seaside towns and my personal favourite is Tenby. Pembrokeshire is a top holiday destination in South Wales and I spent many a childhood holiday playing on Tenby’s famous beaches. However, this seaside town is also packed with charm and history.

Tenby is a historic fishing village with gorgeous colourful houses dotted around its harbour. These are best enjoyed with a relaxing stroll during the soft golden tones just before sunset.

In 2019 Castle Beach in Tenby was voted the UK’s best beach by the Sunday Times.  This beach is the smallest of Tenby’s beaches. From Castle Beach, at low tide, you can access St Catherine’s island and fort. To the north of the beach climb the steps to Castle Hill which houses the remains of Tenby Castle. 

To learn all about the best things to do in Tenby, take a look at this guide.

BEST ACCOMMODATION IN TENBY

• Giltar Hotel (⭐3, 📈8.4, Tenby, beachfront, £)
• The Park Hotel (⭐3, 📈8.9, Tenby, beachfront, ££)
• Heywood Spa Hotel (⭐4, 📈8.8, Tenby, 0.7 miles from North Tenby Beach, £££)

21. Folly Farm

Not far from Tenby is Folly Farm, which is an enjoyable place to visit in South Wales with the family. I’ve enjoyed several trips here with my nieces and nephew and it never gets old.

Check out the super cute red pandas, the adorable sloths and be sure to allow time for rides in the Vintage Fairground. Bigger kids can test their skills on the mini CAT diggers and adults and kids alike can bring out their inner Formula One drivers on the electric go karts.

22. Oakwood Park

Who said theme parks are just for kids? Well, definitely not me! Oakwood Park is Wales’ biggest theme park and with over 40 rides and attractions, is sure to give you a rush of adrenaline.

Bounce along Megaphobia, the best wooden rollercoaster in the UK, get wet on the appropriately named Drenched or for a real adrenaline rush brace yourself for my personal favourite, Speed. It’s a real fun day out in South Wales for all the family.

Put your hands up in the air!

23. Manobier Bay and Castle

Further around the Pembrokeshire coast, Manorbier castle is perched on the cliffs overlooking Manorbier Beach. The bay is a beautiful place to take a stroll or relax before an exploration of the castle behind.

The castle was built in the early part of the 12th century by the Anglo-Norman de Barry family. Today the castle is privately owned but is open to public visits.

The castle is open every day from 10-4pm but may be closed occasionally for private functions and events, so it’s worth calling ahead to avoid disappointment.

24. Barafundle Bay

The hidden gem of Barafundle Bay is another beautiful South Wales place to visit. Well it’s not so much hidden, as just a little bit tricky to get to. There is no road access to Barafundle Bay and instead you have to walk around from Stackpole Quay. The car park here is large but it does get busy so its pays to arrive early.

The coast near Stackpole is popular with coasteerers and paddle boarders. We kayaked from Stackpole to Barafundle but if the water isn’t too choppy, it is also possible by paddle board.

However you reach Barafundle Bay, your efforts are certainly rewarded as you get to relax on, not only the most beautiful beach in South Wales, but one of the most beautiful beaches in the world.

25. St Govan’s Chapel

Founded in the 6th century, St Govan’s is a remarkable little chapel built into the side of a limestone cliff. I first discovered St Govan’s purely by accident, whilst enjoying a hike from Bosherton. I definitely recommend the Bosherton Lilly Ponds walk, however there is road access to St Govan’s if you don’t want a long hike.

Access to the chapel is a via a steep set of stairs. Legend has it that if you count the stairs on the way down and then again on the way back up, the number is never the same! Surely it’s well worth a visit just to find out?!

26. Green Bridge Of Wales

Another highlight of the Pembrokeshire coast is the Green Bridge of Wales. This is a natural rock arch which has been carved away from the mainland by erosion. The Green Bridge is a 5km (one way) hike from St Govan’s Chapel or again it is accessible by road. 

You can also find the Elegug sea stacks nearby which were once arches similar to the Green Bridge.

Both St Govan’s and the Green Bridge are located on MOD land so call ahead to check the firing range is open to visitors. Castlemartin Range – 01646 662367.

Pembrokeshire Classics Tour

Visit the Green Bridge, St Govan’s Chapel, Manobier Castle and more on this guided driving tour of Pembrokeshire.

27. Freshwater West Beach

Freshwater West Beach is another of Pembrokeshire’s beautiful beaches and a popular haunt for surfers. It was a picturesque spot for van lifers, but now overnight camping is prohibited.

For any Harry Potter fans out there this beach is a must visit, as it’s the place where Dobby the house-elf is laid to rest. There’s even a memorial to the fictional Dobby found behind the dunes!

Dobby or no Dobby, this is still a beautiful place to see in South Wales.

28. Skomer Island

Puffin lovers should take a boat trip to Skomer Island, a reserve located just off the Pembrokeshire coast. All Skomer Island visits must be prebooked as visitor numbers to the island are managed. Overnight stays are also possible.

To see puffins, be sure to visit between the months of April and August. We visited in September which is the perfect time to see seal pups. We also saw shearwaters and lots of other birdlife.

Be aware that Skomer is still quite wild so good hiking footwear is required and there are no cafes or restaurants so take your own food and drinks.

Solva is a quintessential Welsh coastal village. The tiny village has a selection of cafes, art galleries and gift shops to explore. A little further upriver there is also the Solva Woollen Mill.

When the tide is high, Solva harbour is home to various watersports but at low tide the inlet drys up completely. A walk out to the mouth of the inlet reveals a large beach with another smaller cove full of rock pools.

Be sure to check the tide times before your visit.

30. St Davids

St David’s is a charming little city in west Pembrokeshire. In fact, it is the smallest city in the UK and about as far west as you can go in Wales. The city is built on the site of a monastery founded by the patron saint of Wales, St David ( Dewi Sant )

Given the history of this city your trip should, of course, include a visit to St David’s Cathedral. Also pay a visit to the adjacent medieval ruins of Bishops Palace.

After the history fix is complete be sure to wander around the pretty narrow streets, peeking your head into the numerous art galleries, cafes and it’s one and only pub! Then head out to the stunning Whitesands Bay.

From this sandy beach you can enjoy some of the best surfing South Wales has to offer. Alternatively, if you’d prefer to keep your feet dry, visit St Davids Head for a breath taking walk around the peninsula. Keep your eyes open for dolphins and seals!

For your perfect stay in St Davids, try the gorgeous  LLety Farm .

31. The Blue Lagoon

For an adventurous exploration of South Wales’ more modern history, head to the Blue Lagoon in Abereiddy. There is a cove near Abereiddy which was once a slate quarry and was active until the early 20th century. When a channel connecting the quarry to the sea was blasted, the Blue Lagoon was formed.

Abandoned quarries and slate mines all around Wales are being given a new lease of life as adventurous destinations (such as those at Zipworld) and the Blue Lagoon is no different. The Blue Lagoon is a popular spot for adventure sports such as coasteering and cliff jumping and has become a tourist hot spot.

Ruined quarry buildings around the lagoon provides evidence of its’ industrial past and add an eerie element to this otherwise beautiful South Wales tourist attraction.

32. Porthgain

At Porthgain, Pembrokeshire delivers another pretty village in another pretty harbour. Porthgain was a harbour village created solely to service its various industries, however today it’s popular for its two art galleries and Bistro Bar called The Shed.

If you’re looking for a pretty coast walk you can venture to Porthgain from the Blue Lagoon and back. Porthgain is actually one of the designated stops for the Coastal bus service, which makes it an ideal starting point for walks in either direction.

33. Strumble Head Lighthouse

Get your wildlife fix at Strumble Head. This rocky headland is considered one of the best locations in the UK for spotting porpoises. It also has a bird observatory (once a wartime lookout post) which was opened by the bird expert himself, Bill Oddie.

The Strumble Head lighthouse was built in 1908 and is still operational today. You can include Strumble Head in your walk around the coast as it’s serviced by a shuttle bus that runs from Newport to St Davids.

34. Pentre Ifan

Found in an unassuming field on the Preseli Hills is Wales’ most famous ancient site – Pentre Ifan Burial Chamber. Constructed over 5000 years ago, the remains of this ancient ruin provide a glimpse as to what must have been quite an incredible burial chamber.

Any archaeological buffs out there will also know that the Preseli Hills are also home to the Spotted Dolerite – the rocks that form the inner sanctum of Stonehenge. Yes, those world famous rocks were dragged all the way from West Wales to the Salisbury Plain.

Even if you have no interest in Neolithic monuments, it’s still very impressive to see a 20 ton capstone precariously balancing on the tips of 3 standing stones. You can push it as much as you like, I promise it doesn’t budge! 

Pentre Ifan is free to visit and a magical place in South Wales to enjoy the sunset.

35. Tresaith Waterfall

I’ve sneaked this one in even though it’s located in Ceredigion which is in the realms of Mid-Wales. The reason for its inclusion though is due to its uniqueness. This beautiful waterfall on the coast near Aberporth, is the only waterfall in Wales that flows directly into the sea (if the tide is right).

There is very limited parking next to the beach so park in the fields at the top of the hill. As you walk onto the beach, the waterfall is on the right hand side. After you’ve finished marvelling at this unique act of Mother Nature, head to the Ship Inn for a drink or bite to eat.

Related Reading

• The Best Places to Visit in Wales
• The 50 Highest Mountains in Wales
• 10 Top Hikes In Snowdonia National Park

A Summary Of The Top Places To Visit In South Wales 

South Wales is a broad region of Wales which incapsulates the entire southern region of this compact country. In this guide I have outlined all the top things to do in South Wales and all the best places to visit.

South Wales is easily accessible from other regions of the UK. The bigger cities are serviced by public transport however the more remote regions are best served by having a car.

A trip to South Wales offers a wide array of options. Visitors can explore natural wonders such as caves, waterfalls and mountains and see historical sites such as castles, abbeys and manors. There are cities to visit, national parks to hike and wildlife to spot.

Are there any other places in South Wales you would add to this list?

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Louise is an Adventure Tour Guide & Mountain Leader from South Wales. Through working as a tour guide and snowboard instructor, she has spent the last 15 years travelling Asia, Africa and the Americas. Louise is a published photographer and is currently based in the UK.

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30 TOP Places To Visit in South Wales & South Wales Attractions!

Categories U.K , Wales

There are so many amazing places to visit in South Wales! From the cosmopolitan city of Cardiff with shopping, culture, and nightlife, to the Brecon Beacons National Park which is full of walking paths and waterfalls, Pembrokeshire which is home to the best beaches in Wales, and so many places in between!

After spending most of my life visiting family between England and South Wales and then living in Cardiff for a while, I have put together this ultimate list of the best places to visit in South Wales which I’ll keep updating as I see more of the South Wales tourist attractions myself and more beautiful spots in South Wales because there are so many of them!

Places To Visit in South Wales

Find What You're Looking For Easily Here!

South Wales Map

Here is a map of South Wales with all of the South Wales places to visit that I have mentioned below. This will help you work out where to visit in South Wales with the time that you have.

How to get to South Wales?

Before we go into places to go in South Wales, I want to quickly tell you why South Wales is a great destination within the UK in case you are still in the research stage of a trip to South Wales.

If you live in Southern England or in the Midlands, South Wales is really easy to get to! The M4 runs into South Wales and it connects well to many motorways in England like the M5, M40 and M3.

If you live in London, I was so surprised to recently realise that the train from London to Cardiff is less than 2 hours! That’s why I wrote this post on a Cardiff day trip from London because it’s totally possible!

How to get around South Wales?

Driving is definitely the best way to get around South Wales and if you have a car, you’re all good!

There are plenty of places to hire a car in Cardiff if you decide to get public transport to Cardiff from where you live if you don’t own a car.

As for the roads in South Wales, the M4 connects a lot of the South Coast making it easy and quick to get from Cardiff to further places in South West Wales, and there are many good A roads.

There are a lot of country lanes in South Wales to navigate, however, I think the roads in South Wales are easier to navigate than North Wales if that is a concern of yours.

CAR HIRE IN WALES

If you’re reading this post with future dreams of doing a Wales road trip but don’t have a car, visit Rentalcars to get a quote. They search all of the top rental companies like Budget and Hertz to get you the best price!

Search car rental prices for Wales here!

Getting to South Wales by Train and Bus:

If you don’t drive or you are visiting overseas and don’t want to drive, the public transport in South Wales is very good, especially the trains which will take you longer distances along the coast.

If you are relying on public transport, I would fully recommend South Wales over North Wales for ease of getting around.

I recommend looking at Transport for Wales to see the train and bus connections which will help you work out where to go in South Wales.

For more help on where to visit in Wales by train? Read my 10 best places to visit in Wales by train post!

South Wales Attractions

South Wales really has something for everyone which you’ll soon see in this list of best places to visit in South Wales.

If you want a trip into nature with lots of long walks and barely any phone signal you can do that!

If you want a trip where you can keep the kids busy , there are lots of things to do in South Wales with kids so you can do that!

If you want a city break in Cardiff but also want to see some beaches and go hiking, but don’t want to go too far, you can do that!

South Wales Itinerary

Maybe you want to visit South Wales for 1 week and stay in 1 places, maybe you are visiting for 4 days and want to do a Wales road trip visiting many different places.

This list of South Wales places to visit will help you work out where to visit in South Wales with the time you have and depending on how fast you want to travel,

However, I also recommend checking out my South Wales itinerary posts below to give you a better idea of how much of South Wales you can see in 1 trip.

1 Week South Wales Itinerary!

3 Days in South Wales itinerary!

1 Week in Wales itinerary – North & South Wales!

Best Places To Visit in South Wales

Now let’s go into my complete list of the best places to visit in South Wales to help you plan your South Wales trip or holiday!

1. England Wales Border – Wye Valley

On the very edge of Wales is the Wye Valley so if you’re driving from Southern England to Wales, you should pass through the Wye Valley on the way.

One of the main places to visit in the Wye Valley is Tintern Abbey . The historic Abbey ruins of Tintern Abbey and the village of Tintern are a good place to stretch your legs at the start or end of your Wales road trip.

If you want a bit of a hike you can hike up to Devils Pulpit which is nearby and a great introduction to South Wales hikes!

Book this guided-tour and escape to nature with a Wye Valley and Brecon Beacons Full-Day Trip

2. Cardiff City

Cardiff is the capital city of Wales and it is a great city to visit and perfect for a city break with some added extras.

Cardiff is well known for its nightlife and things to do in Cardiff during the day include Cardiff Castle and walking around Cardiff Bay.

Cardiff is a good base to see more of South Wales from, you can do day trips from Cardiff to visit many places on this list of places to go in South Wales like the Brecon Beacons and Swansea Gower.

Related Posts: 1 Day Cardiff Itinerary & TOP 20 Things To Do In Cardiff, Cardiff Bay & Near Cardiff!

Get on board for a flexible Hop-On Hop-Off Bus adventure – Book now!

3. Cardiff – Caerphilly Castle

Caerphilly is just a 20-minute drive from Cardiff City Centre so it’s a good place to stop when you are entering or leaving Cardiff.

The top attraction is Caerphilly Castle which when constructed in the 13th Century was the biggest castle in Wales easily making it one of the top South Wales attractions!

If you want to stretch your legs, be sure to climb Caerphilly Mountain which is more of a hill than a mountain so it doesn’t take long and it’s pretty easy, but it gives amazing countryside views!

Related Post: How To Do Caerphilly Mountain Walk! Easy Walk Near Cardiff!

4. Cardiff – Castle Coch

Another great stop on your way into or out of Cardiff is Castle Coch .

Castle Coch is a really impressive castle and as you drive towards it, it looks like a fairytale castle sticking out of the woods! It’s a 19th-century Gothic Revival castle built to protect Cardiff.

You can go inside the castle by purchasing a ticket however it is impressive to see from the outside and you can also go for a walk around the woods of Fforest Fawr where it’s located.

5. Brecon Beacons National Park – Pen Y Fan

The Brecon Beacons National Park is definitely one of the top places to visit in South Wales because of its stunning countryside, its activities and hikes!

The Brecon Beacons is the best place for hiking in South Wales, it has the second-highest peak in Wales called Pen Y Fan (the highest peak is Snowdon in North Wales).

Hiking Pen Y Fan makes for a brilliant day out in South Wales and I really recommend taking on the challenge to tick this well known peak off and see South Wales from above!

Related Post: How To Do Pen Y Fan Walk in The Brecon Beacons!

6. Brecon Beacons – Hay on Wye

You’ll find the pretty market town of Hay on Wye in the Brecon Beacons National Park to the North on the edge of England and Wales.

Hay on Wye is a really unique place making it one of the places of interest in South Wales because it is famous for its literature and books !

The town is full of book shops old and new along with other independent shops and lots of nice cafes . It’s a real gem in South Wales!

7. Brecon Beacons – Waterfalls

The Brecon Beacons National Park is full of waterfalls and if you’re looking for where to visit in South Wales, I recommend going to see some waterfalls in the National Park.

There is a 4 waterfall walk which is a popular walk and relatively easy walk to do taking just a few hours.

There are places to go wild swimming in the Brecon Beacons on the walk as well as walking behind a waterfall and seeing more of the beautiful landscape of the National Park in South Wales.

Related Post: How To Do The Brecon Beacons Waterfalls Walk to 4 Waterfalls!

8. Brecon Beacons National Showcaves

A really great South Wales attraction for families is the National Showcaves Centre of Wales located in the south of the Brecon Beacons National Park!

It is a cave exploration attraction with a dinosaur park, museum, Iron Age farm and kids’ play area so it’s the perfect stop on your Wales road trip or South Wales holiday for children to enjoy!

9. Barry Island

If you know of Gavin and Stacey , you’ll know Barry Island, and for some seaside fun and for one of the popular days out in South Wales you can head to Barry Island for the day!

Barry Island is full of candy floss, fish & chips, arcade games, and rides, some people think it’s a bit tacky but if you go for the fun of it, you’ll have a good time!

Plus, there are a few different beaches in Barry Island and some are much quieter and relaxed than others so it’s still worth checking out, even if you are dubious!

Related Post: Barry Island Beaches Guide! 4 BEST Beaches in Barry To Visit!

10. Glamorgan Heritage Coast – Nash Point

A hugely underrated part of Wales is the Glamorgan Heritage Coast ! This part of the Wales Coastal Path between Cardiff and Swansea is full of amazing beaches and South Wales beauty spots.

Nash Point is my favourite area on the Glamorgan Heritage Coast in South Wales.

It has a towering cliff edge and the rocks down at the beach are one of the best places in ways for fossil hunting in South Wales! If you have children who are into dinosaurs, this is a great stop in South Wales!

11. Glamorgan – Cowbridge

Cowbridge is a lovely market town between Cardiff and Bridgend so if you’re driving from Cardiff to the Glamorgan Heritage Coast I suggest you take the scenic route rather than the M4 and drive through Cowbridge.

It’s full of independent shops in colourful buildings. There’s a pretty garden called the Physic Garden you can stretch your legs in and I recommend getting ice cream from Fablas Ice Cream Parlour .

It’s a hidden gem in South Wales for sure!

12. Swansea City

South Wales doesn’t have many cities but if you’re looking for a city break in South Wales which isn’t Cardiff, Swansea is your next best option!

Swansea City is only small but it benefits from being right on the water with Swansea Bay and Swansea Gower attached to it.

Swansea is known for its fun university nightlife and is also close to many of the best places to visit in South Wales on this list making it a good city base and location to be in in South Wales.

Discover the charm of Swansea on a Highlights Walking Tour – Book now!

13. Swansea Gower – Rhossili Bay

The Swansea Gower feels like an Island off of the coast of Swansea and South Wales but it is actually joined to the mainland making it easy to visit from the M4.

Rhossili Bay is the most famous place to visit on the Gower because this beach has been voted as one of the best beaches in Wales (and maybe the world?). It’s not hard to see why so it should be on your list of places to visit in South Wales!

The beach is huge and you get an amazing view of it whilst taking a coastal walk down Worms Head.

14. Swansea Gower – Three Cliffs Bay

Another one of the best beaches in Swansea Gower is the Three Cliffs Bay which offers you a wild beach experience with sand dunes, a salt marsh and limestone cliffs , plus an amazing sand beach.

You can base yourself here for a few days on your South Wales trip, the T hree Cliffs Bay Holiday Park is a well known and popular place to stay in South Wales or you can stop by whilst visiting the other places to go in South Wales on this list.

Related Post: How To Visit Three Cliffs Bay & Three Cliffs Bay Walks!

15. Carmarthenshire – National Botanic Gardens of Wales

When planning your South Wales trip, the National Botanic Gardens of Wales outside Carmarthen is a good place to stop all year round and definitely one of the good things to do in Wales when it rains because much of it is inside!

At this South Wales tourist attraction you can visit the Great Glasshouse and Tropical House indoors and get a ticket for the   British Bird of Prey Centre !

If the weather is good you can stretch your legs in the 400 acre Waun Las National Nature Reserve which is an enchanting mosaic of flower-rich meadows, evocative woodlands, waterfalls and cascades.

16. Carmarthenshire – Pembrey Country Park and Beach

If you’re doing this Wales trip with kids and want to wear them out, or you want a really good walk yourself, Pembrey Country Park is where you need to visit.

With an 8 mile long beach and a huge woodland area there is plenty of space to walk! You can also do activities here like horse riding, Wales longest toboggan run, dry ski slopes, crazy golf and more!

If you are looking for caravan sites and camping in South Wales sites, I really recommend Pembrey Campsite because of how many facilities are within the County Park.

17. Pembrokeshire – Tenby

Now we are onto Pembrokeshire and South West Wales on this list of best places to visit in South Wales!

Pembrokeshire is the top holiday destination in South Wales and Wales overall, and Tenby is the most popular beach and seaside town in Pembrokeshire.

This extremely colourful town has everything you need for a Welsh seaside holiday includes Tenby holiday cottages , 3 sand beaches, coastal walks, shops, restaurants and boat tours.

I really recommend visiting Tenby on your Wales holiday because it is such a popular place and so many people love it as one of the best places to visit in Wales.

Another reason Tenby and the places near Tenby are so good is because you can base yourself here to see more of Pembrokeshire from in an easy way.

Related Posts: 15 BEST Beaches in Pembrokeshire To Visit & A Map & 10 Best & Beautiful Campsites Near Tenby And Close to the Beach!

18. Pembrokeshire – Saundersfoot

Saundersfoot has a beautiful, big, sandy beach with a pretty seaside village and it’s really close to Tenby. In fact, one of my favourite South Wales walks is walking from Saundersfoot to Tenby !

Saundersfoot is home to some amazing food and restaurants you should visit here when in South Wales if you want a less touristic beach but still one with good holiday facilities around you.

Related Post: Things To Do in Saundersfoot & Things To Do Near Saundersfoot.

19. Pembrokeshire – Manor Wildlife Park

Manor House Wildlife Park is a 52-acre zoo with large animal enclosures which you can walk through and see a close-up view of the animals.

A great stop for families to visit in South Wales and in Pembrokeshire to keep the kids entertained. It’s also a great childrens attraction in South Wales if the weather isn’t that great and you don’t want to be on the beach!

20. Pembrokeshire – Manorbier

Manorbier Beach is one of the beaches near Tenby and the best beaches in South Wales . It’s popular with locals and holidaymakers from nearby accommodation and holiday parks!

It’s a great beach for beginner surfing , and surfing for children because of its small waves. It has a rock and sand beach and is surrounded by a beautiful coastal path.

Whilst stopping in Manorbier on your South Wales trip, you can also visit Manorbier Castle and get some cake at Beach Break Tearooms!

21. Pembrokeshire – Barafundle Bay

Voted one of the beaches in the world, Barafundle Bay is a must-visit for beautiful places in South Wales.

The reason why this beach and bay is so nice is because you need to walk 10-15 minutes over a field and cliff top to get there and once you are there there are no beach facilities.

Related Post: How to Get to Barafundle Bay.

22. Pembrokeshire – Bosherston Lilly Ponds

This is a lovely and surprising walking loop from the very small village of Bosherston. From the car park, you are a minute from a beautiful pond and footpath that takes between 1-2 hours to walk around.

Not many people know about the Bosherston Lilly Ponds because they are hidden, so they are definitely a hidden gem in Wales that you need to keep in mind when planning where to go in South Wales!

Related Post: How To Visit the Bosherston Lilly Ponds in Pembrokeshire!

23. Pembrokeshire – St Govan’s Chapel

If you want to visit more hidden gems in South Wales , St Govan’s Chapel is another place to visit!

This is a chapel hidden down a set of steps that leads out onto a hidden bay!

It’s really close to Bosherston Lilly Ponds so you should plan to visit both at one time on your South Wales itinerary.

Related Post: How to Visit St Govan’s Chapel in Pembrokeshire! A Hidden Place!

24. Pembrokeshire – Freshwater West Beach

If you’re a Harry Potter fan you may know of this beach because it is where Dobby the house-elf is laid to rest after his battle!

There is a little memorial for Dobby with rocks and stones behind the dunes that you can visit which is a must-visit for Harry Potter fans in South Wales!

You should still visit this beach in Pembrokeshire even if you are not a Harry Potter fan because it is another one of Pembrokeshire’s best beaches . I visited at sunset and it was such an amazing sunset spot so try to include this on your itinerary for South Wales too!

25. Pembrokeshire – Pembroke Castle

Pembroke town is not somewhere you need too spend much time but whilst travelling through Pembrokeshire in South Wales, you may find yourself passing through Pembroke and Pembroke Castle is a nice place to stop.

There are so many castles in Wales and Pembroke Castle is one of the big castles that you can fully walk around so it’s one of the great things to do in Pembrokeshire with kids .

When in Pembroke town you can also take a walk along the river and get lunch or a drink in one of the many pubs close to the castle .

26. Pembrokeshire – Oakwood Theme Park

This is Wales biggest theme park and therefore the biggest of the South Wales tourist attractions. From my many experiences there as a teenager, a really good theme park too!

If you want to do something a bit different or it is not beach weather, you can have fun at Oakwood theme park !

27. Pembrokeshire – Ramsey Island

Ramsey Island is one of the beauty spots in South Wales. You can see and visit Ramsey Island on a boat trip . I booked this whilst in St David’s which is the small city nearby.

In the right season you can spot whales and dolphins from the boat and I believe all year round you’ll get to see seals which is what I saw. It’s a great day out in South Wales and Pembrokeshire for children and adults!

Related Post: 10 Things To Do In Broad Haven close to St David’s .

28. Pembrokeshire – Blue Lagoon

If you want somewhere cool to swim in South Wales , especially in the summer, you have to add the Blue Lagoon to your list of top places to visit in South Wales!

It’s a former slate quarry and now features a big, and deep, lagoon that is popular for coasteering, kayaking and swimming!

The Blue Lagoon is now one of the South Wales Instagram spots you see a lot of online!

29. Cardigan

For places to visit in South West Wales, Cardigan has to be on the list! Despite Cardigan’s small size, this ancient market town is a great place to base yourself in South West Wales because there are plenty of things to do in Cardigan and Cardigan Bay.

The Cardigan Bay coastline is by far the top attraction, it’s actually where the Pembrokeshire Coastal Path starts so if you enjoy hiking, this is a great place to go.

Cardigan is surrounded by amazing beaches which are much less touristy than many of those further South in Pembrokeshire and you’re bound to see more of Welsh local life in this part of South Wales.

30. Powys – Elan Valley Dams

The Powys region is technically in Mid-Wales but when looking at a map of Wales, it is closer to the South and easier to reach from South Wales, that’s why this impressive place area is ending my list of places to visit in South Wales!

Elan Valley and the Elan Valley Dams and Reservoirs are one of the top places to visit in Powys. They were built a hundred years ago to supply desperately needed clean water to Birmingham. Today, they are perfect for walking around and they are impressive to see with gushing water travelling from one dam to another!

(Although if the water levels are low as they were when I went, you won’t see gushing water, but they are still lovely to see and walk around.)

If you are coming from the Midlands into South Wales, going via the Elan Valley is a good way to enter or exit Wales and see this stunning beauty spot in Wales!

Best Time to Visit South Wales

You’re definitely going to enjoy South Wales more if the weather is good.

Just like the rest of the UK, the weather in Wales is quite unpredictable , however, the sun definitely does shine in Wales and when it does, it’s absolutely… lush! (As the Welsh say.)

I say that late Spring and early Autumn are good times to visit South Wales for better weather, but also because in the summer school holidays South Wales does get busy with tourists.

So if you are flexible with when to visit South Wales, I recommend keeping that in mind.

For more information, I wrote this full blog post on the best time to visit Wales .

South Wales FAQs

What can you do in south wales for free.

There are many things to do in South Wales for free. The main free activities in South Wales including going on hikes and visiting beaches in South Wales.

How many days do you need in South Wales?

As little as 2 days is a good amount of time for a city break in Cardiff and with 3 days in South Wales you can see a bit more. However, to see a good amount of South Wales, 5 to 7 days is recommended! 1 week in South Wales will enable you to see a lot!

I hope this has helped you work out the best places to visit in South Wales!

• For more of my Wales posts to help you plan your trip see:
• How To Spend 3 Days in Wales! Perfect 3 Day Wales Itinerary!
• 16 Beautiful Staycations in Wales To Feel Like You’re Abroad!
• Best Time To Visit Wales By Weather & Things To Do!
• TOP 20 Things To Do In Cardiff, Cardiff Bay & Near Cardiff!
• 15 BEST Beaches in Pembrokeshire To Visit & A Map!

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14 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in South Wales, UK

Written by Bryan Dearsley Updated May 26, 2022 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

South Wales incorporates the Welsh capital of Cardiff, along with some of the country's loveliest scenery. Little surprise, then, that this beautiful region consistently ranks as one of the top places to visit in the UK.

Easily accessible from England – the city of Bristol is just a short drive away – the region is also a popular holiday destination thanks to the spectacular Brecon Beacons, home to Pen y Fan, the highest mountain south of Snowdonia . This beautiful region also consists of the magnificent South Wales Valleys, an area once famous for its coal, as well as the Wye Valley, the Vale of Usk, and the beautiful Glamorgan Heritage Coast.

If you only have a day or two in your UK travel itinerary to see Wales, you couldn't do much better than spending it exploring the many picturesque valleys and small old mining communities found here. You'll discover extremely friendly people and attractive towns and villages bursting with traditional Welsh culture, many of them home to unique hotels and inns, museums, and shops.

See the best of this region with our list of the top tourist attractions in South Wales, UK.

1. The Welsh Capital of Cardiff

2. experience "wild wales" in the brecon beacons national park, 3. explore brecon's spectacular waterfalls, 4. st. fagans national museum of history, cardiff, 5. dan yr ogof and the national showcaves centre for wales, 6. explore glamorgan's heritage coast, 7. carreg cennen castle, 8. visit the vale of neath, 9. welsh mining experience, 10. the wye valley and tintern abbey, 11. merthyr tydfil, 12. the big pit national coal museum, 13. llancaiach fawr manor, 14. the town of books: hay-on-wye, map of tourist attractions in south wales, uk.

The capital of Wales is undoubtedly one of the most attractive cities in the UK. Which is why Cardiff (Caerdydd) is a must-visit destination when exploring South Wales, and makes a great base from which to venture forth on exciting day trips and adventures .

In addition to the famous (and well-preserved) Cardiff Castle , the city is also well-known for its large harbor area, now home to numerous fine cultural opportunities. Once one of the busiest ports in the UK, much of Cardiff Bay has been extensively redeveloped and now comprises close to 2,700 acres of luxury housing and commercial buildings, including a rich mix of offices, restaurants, and shops.

There are also numerous entertainment and cultural facilities, too, including a theater and science center (Techniquest). Topping this list are state-of-the-art sports amenities, including a man-made white water rafting center, and numerous parks, along with a nature preserve.

Cardiff is also a very popular shopping destination, with tourists flocking here to explore its many well-preserved Victorian-era shopping arcades.

• Read More: Top Tourist Attractions in Cardiff

The Brecon Beacons, less than an hour's drive north of Cardiff, is widely considered one of the most beautiful parts of Wales , if not Britain. This stunning region boasts an extremely diverse landscape, which features native deciduous trees along with North American conifers and broad swaths of moorland.

The best way to sample this naturally beautiful region is to plan a visit to Brecon Beacons National Park. Founded in 1957 and famous for its wild ponies, this 519-square-miles borders the Black Mountains to the west, and to the east, another mountain range, also called the Black Mountains.

Most of the park's peaks are more than 1,000 feet high, while many reach in excess of 2,000 feet. Formed from red sandstone, it's said they look like beacons, hence their name. However, the name may also derive from the fires lit on the peaks as warning signals during the Middle Ages.

One of the most popular things to do here is hiking, with many of the best trails also doubling as biking routes. You'll also find an array of accommodation options, from quaint bed-and-breakfasts and hotels to camping and even "glamping."

For a truly memorable experience, combine a stay here with a look at the night sky. Brecon Beacons has been designated an International Dark Sky Reserve since 2013.

Address: Plas y Ffynnon, Cambrian Way, Brecon, Wales

Official site: www.beacons-npa.gov.uk

Brecon Beacons National Park also contains a number of lovely waterfalls, and a day could easily be spent simply wandering the park to visit them. The most famous of the park's four largest waterfalls is the 90-foot-high Henryd Falls at Coelbren, the highest in Wales. An easy walking trail spans the stream leading to the pool at the bottom of the falls and makes for a fun hike.

Another waterfall worth visiting in "Waterfall Country" is Blaen-y-Glyn. Fed by the River Caerfanell and Nant Bwrefwr, it's accessible by a number of hiking trails. Finally, be sure to also visit Sgwd yr Eira. This picturesque falls is popular for the narrow pathway that actually takes you behind the cascade of water as it plummets into the pool at its base.

A popular hike if you can spare a few hours is the fun Four Falls walk. This scenic adventure can take three to four hours, depending on your pace - and picnic stops. It starts at Cwm Porth and loops around the park, taking in such sights as the beautiful Blue Pool, as well as the Sgwd Clun-Gwyn, Sgwd y Pannwr, and the Sgwd yr Eira falls.

Fresh from a multi-million-pound makeover, St. Fagans National Museum of History ("Sain Ffagan" in Welsh) is one of the best places to visit in Wales for those wanting to learn more about the history of this tiny but influential country.

Located a few miles west of Cardiff's city center and easy to get to via public transport, St. Fagan's was established on 100 acres on an Elizabethan-era country estate in the 1940s to celebrate and preserve Welsh culture. Much changed over the years and now boasting more than 40 re-erected original structures representing Welsh buildings over the centuries, it's widely regarded as one of the best open-air museums in the UK.

Highlights include the reproduction of stone age homes and farms from the Iron Ages, as well as buildings known to have been around in medieval times and used by Welsh royalty. Representing more "modern" times are a schoolhouse, workshops and forges, two working watermills, and even a church.

A restaurant is located on-site, and guided tours, workshops, and seasonal events are available. You can also explore the gardens and interior of the historic St. Fagans manor house.

Location: West Cardiff, Wales

Official site: https://museum.wales/stfagans/

Another must-see natural attraction in South Wales is Dan yr Ogof. Located in the upper part of the Tawe Valley, Dan yr Ogof is full of stalagmites and stalactites, as well as many magnificent passages and chambers. All told, this spectacular network of caves stretches over 10 miles, with some of the most accessible areas floodlit.

Part of a major tourist attraction called the National Showcaves Centre for Wales , the site also includes the Bone Cave and Cathedral Cave, as well as a replica Iron Age village. Also worth seeing are the ancient stone circles.

For those traveling with kids, there's also a fun dinosaur park, which is home to an impressive collection of over 200 life-size replica dinosaurs. Camping and self-catering accommodations are also available for those wanting to prolong their visit.

Also worth checking out is the Cotebrook Shire Horse Centre. Set on 50 acres, this authentic Victorian farm features both local and exotic species, an indoor playground, a campground, and many examples of the famous Shire horses that once worked the country's many farms.

Location: Abercraf, Swansea, Wales

Official site: www.showcaves.co.uk

Extending from Porthcawl to Aberthaw, the Glamorgan Heritage Coast is a 14-mile-long stretch of spectacular scenery. It's easy to get to from Cardiff and has become increasingly popular among hikers and cyclists.

A good place to start exploring is at the Glamorgan Heritage Coast Centre in Dunraven Park located at the western most point of the coastline. In addition to its interesting displays relating to the area's history, flora, and fauna, including interactive educational games for kids, you're just steps away from the spectacular cliffs and limestone formations of Dunraven Bay.

Other attractions include Nash Point , notable for its beautiful views, ancient Iron Age fortification, and lighthouse, plus easy-to-spot fossils, as well as the rocky beaches of Aberthaw, a popular spot for wildlife viewing, fishing, and surfing. Also worth a visit, the beach at Cwm Col-huw is a picture-perfect spot for a picnic or birdwatching in the nearby nature reserve.

Address: 2 Beach Road, Southerndown, Bridgend, Wales

After visiting spectacular Carreg Cennen Castle, it's easy to see why the site was chosen for a fortress. Towering over a great crag almost 300 feet above the River Cennen, the castle offers outstanding sightseeing views over Brecon Beacons National Park and the surrounding countryside.

Famously painted by Turner, one of Britain's most well-known landscape artists, it's one of only a handful of privately owned castles in Wales. Indeed, a fascinating story tells how the current owners mistakenly paid the paltry sum of only £100 for it as part of the farmland they purchased.

Today, the ruins of Carreg Cennen are fun to explore. So, too, are the property's cave and hiking trails. Afterwards, explore the authentic Welsh hill farm, enjoy refreshments in the tearoom, and pick up some souvenirs in the gift shop.

Address: Trapp, Llandeilo, Carmarthenshire, Wales

Official site: www.carregcennencastle.com

The River Neath, which enters the Bristol Channel at Swansea, has carved itself into the exposed carbon layers at a depth of about 1,313 feet. In doing so, it cut off the coal seams that in the 18th and 19th century lead to the development of heavy industry here.

These days, it's all about tourism in this picturesque area, which boasts a number of pleasant walking trails. Highlights include Aberdulais Falls , an impressive example of how water can provide the energy needed for industrial purposes and which allows visitors a close-up look at Europe's largest electricity generating waterwheel.

Also nearby is Neath Abbey . This Cistercian abbey was founded by Richard de Granville in 1130 and later converted into an Elizabethan mansion. The market town of Neath is also worth a visit, and is home to the ruins of Neath Castle, an impressive Norman structure built in the 12th century.

Rhondda's surviving colliery buildings have been converted into a fascinating heritage center, Rhondda Heritage Park. Billed as the Welsh Mining Experience, here visitors can travel through time in an elevator to "Pit Bottom" down one of the original mine shafts.

There's also a recreation of the working Lewis Merthyr Colliery of the 1950s and a multi-media exhibit about the history of coal mining in the area. Exciting Black Gold Experience Underground Tours are led by former colliery workers; the mine closed in 1983, as did most of the more than 53 working collieries in the area.

Above ground, a replica village street showcases the lifestyles of area residents who depended upon coal extraction for their livelihoods. For those wanting to stay on-site, the Heritage Park Hotel offers reasonably priced accommodations and is a particularly fun option during special events and occasions, such as Halloween and Christmas. Also worth a visit is Caffe Bracchi, an on-site restaurant offering a variety of food and beverage options.

Address: Rhondda Heritage Park, Coedcae Road, South Wales

Official site: www.rctcbc.gov.uk/EN/Tourism/RhonddaHeritagePark/Home.aspx

While not solely a Welsh area, as it extends northwards from Monmouthshire into neighboring England, the Wye Valley is an area of outstanding natural beauty and a worthwhile stop for visitors to South Wales. Here, you'll be rewarded with a chance to explore some of the prettiest, and certainly most striking, landscapes in the UK.

Stretching some 45 miles along a lower section of the River Wye, the most scenic parts of the valley are a mix of spectacular limestone gorges and thick forests . Here, you'll find a rich bounty of wildlife, including falcons and hawks, making it a popular area for bird-watching.

The human element is important here, too. Notable man-made additions to this beautiful rural setting include Tintern Abbey , a 12th-century abbey located in the quaint village of Tintern. This well-preserved religious site has been the subject of many poems, perhaps most famously William Wordsworth's Tintern Abbey , widely regarded as some of the Romantic poet's best writing.

For those wanting to learn more about the abbey's strong connection to the arts, as well as its long, rich history, the on-site visitor center is worth a stop.

Official site: https://cadw.gov.wales/visit/places-to-visit/tintern-abbey

Just 23 miles north of Cardiff, the town of Merthyr Tydfil is a great place from which to begin exploring the Brecon Beacons National Park. Not only is it on the National Cycle Route, it's also where you'll find the Brecon Mountain Railway .

This wonderful narrow-gauge heritage railway travels five miles into the Brecon Beacons. Due to its ability to reach remote corners of the region that are inaccessible to cars, it's as popular with hikers as it is with steam enthusiasts.

Another area attraction worth visiting is Cyfarthfa Castle Museum and Art Gallery located in an impressive Industrial Age mansion built for William Crawshay II, the local iron magnate. The castle itself hosts numerous cultural and musical events throughout the year, too, while the historic Old Town Hall has been converted into the Red House arts center.

Blaenavon is one of the best-preserved examples of a traditional South Wales iron and coal town. Although part of the town dates from the late 1780s, most of its buildings are representative of an early to mid-Victorian Welsh industrial community, with much of it built before 1870.

The town is famous for the Blaenavon's ironworks , also known as "Big Pit" (Pwll Mawr), the old blast furnaces and foundries of which are now part of the fascinating Big Pit National Coal Museum. Even the tower of the hydraulic lift, used to raise the ore-laden iron wagons, has survived.

Things to do here include touring the workshops, winding engines, and workers' residential areas (admission to these is free). Entry to the 328-foot-deep shaft as part of the Real Underground Experience gives visitors a first-hand impression of the tough life of a miner. Tours below ground, sometimes led by former miners, require warm clothing.

Address: Blaenavon, Torfaen, Wales

Official site: www.museumwales.ac.uk/bigpit/

North of Cardiff is the award-winning Llancaiach Fawr living history museum. Colorfully costumed guides show visitors around this fully restored 16th-century manor house overlooking the Glamorgan Uplands.

If available, be sure to join one of the fun evening ghost tours, or time your visit to coincide with seasonal events at Christmas. A variety of fun educational workshops are also regularly hosted.

Also worth a visit are the home's historic gardens , which contain many of the original plant species grown here in the 1550s and serve as a popular backdrop for weddings. A tea room and gift shop are also located on-site.

Address: Trelewis, Nelson, Treharris, Wales

Official site: www.llancaiachfawr.co.uk/en/

Another must-visit in South Wales is the small market town of Hay-on-Wye. Best known as the site of Britain's top book festival, Hay, as it is most often referred to, boasts some 20 or so bookstores.

Started in 1988 as a means of generating tourism, the 10-day Hay Festival of Literature & Arts - usually simply known as the Hay Festival - is held in late May to early June and attracts visitors from far and wide, along with some of the world's leading writers. In more recent years, a combined music and philosophy festival called "How the Light Gets In" has also sprung up and draws a large audience each May.

Be sure to include Hay Castle on your itinerary, too. Built originally as a medieval fortress, you'll see that a spectacular 17th-century manor home now dominates the site, incorporating into its design many elements of the earlier structure.

Address: The Drill Hall, 25 Lion Street, Hay-on-Wye, Wales

Official site: http://hayfestival.com/home

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Other Areas to Explore: If you have time for an extended trip through the country, be sure to use our Top Attractions in Wales article to help you plan. For more details on regional attractions and things to do, turn to our pieces on the Top Attractions of North Wales and the Pembrokeshire Coastline .

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South Wales is one of those places that has it all. Home to the capital, Cardiff, it’s a hub of Welsh culture, sporting events and all with easy access to coastal hikes and the tranquillity of the Wye Valley. The stunning scenery of the Brecon Beacons, the urban Cardiff hub and the incredible coasts and castles make it easy to see why it is such a spectacular holiday destination.

The South Wales valleys were the birthplace of the Industrial Revolution, harnessing all the coal that would then power a shift to the modern world. Today, you can visit the Ironworks and the Big Pit, both of which have been preserved in its original condition when the coal production halted in 1980.

Home to the Brecon Beacons, which is widely considered one of the most beautiful parts of Wales (if not Britain), South Wales has something for everyone. If you only have a day or two in your itinerary to see South Wales, then you couldn’t do any better than spending it exploring the many charming valleys, old mining communities, unique museums and castles.

If you want to find out more about places to visit in South Wales, then you’re in the right place. Browse our useful guides to see the top places to visit, complete with local tips and insider knowledge.

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23 of the Best Places to Visit in South Wales

• Last Updated 13 November 2023

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With this year set to be the year of more local travel, I’ve been busy showcasing some of the most amazing places in the UK . If you want to discover a few new places to visit, South Wales could be a brilliant place to start.

Whether you’re looking for adventure, wildlife and nature, history and culture, or an exciting city break escape, the South of Wales has it all!

From the wild and rugged scenery of the Brecon Beacons National Park to the stunning coastline… South Wales is full of incredible landscapes. Not to mention vibrant cities – including the Welsh capital – quaint countryside villages, and cute seaside towns.

I asked locals and top travel bloggers for their favourite must-visit places in South Wales! Get ready for some serious travel inspiration…

Map of Places to Visit in South Wales

Brecon beacons national park, south wales, cardiff – the welsh capital, wye valley aonb, gower peninsula, abergavenny, st david’s – the smallest city in the uk, glamorgan heritage coast, pembrey country park, dan yr ogof caves, skomer island, hay-on-wye – the town of books, pembrokeshire coast national park, tintern abbey, laugharne – dylan thomas’ home, cardigan bay, south west wales, vale of neath, barry island, merthyr tydfil & the brecon mountain railway, caerphilly and caerphilly castle, more near south wales.

The region of South Wales is sometimes only applied to the very bottom “heel” of the country – the historic counties of Glamorgan, and Monmouthshire.

However, for this post, I’m also including the southwest region of Wales , right the way around to the Bay of Cardigan. If it’s in the south, it counts – for the sake of this post at least!

23 Places to Visit in South Wales

Recommended by: Rachel, Average Lives

The Brecon Beacons National Park is one of the best places to visit in South Wales because it is full of extraordinary adventures. It’s known as “waterfall country” and is full of breathtaking scenery, charming towns, castles, canals, and unforgettable outdoor fun.

You can experience gorge walking , quad biking, and hike incredible trails. Some of the best include the Four Falls Trail, where you can admire four different waterfalls in the beautiful woodland.

Nearby is the famous Pen y Fan, which lies 886m above level and is a National Trust walking trail. Hikers climb to the summit to take a picture of the Bronze Age cairn. From the top (if weather permits), you will see dramatic views across South and Mid Wales and Southwest England. After adventuring, you should grab a hearty meal at the pub in Brecon. You won’t regret it!

Recommended by: Cath, Passports and Adventures

One of the must-visit places in South Wales is the Welsh capital, Cardiff . Cardiff is a vibrant city with a large student population thanks to the university. But that’s not all there is to it.

Cardiff has a wealth of things to offer visitors, no matter their interests. Even travelling to  Cardiff with kids  is easy, with family-friendly places such as Cardiff Castle and St Fagan’s on offer. Cardiff Castle has a Norman Keep, Castle Apartments and walls that hold secrets. St Fagan’s is the National Museum of History, where you can view and step inside buildings from around Wales through the ages.

Museums are ten-a-penny in Cardiff, while if you like shopping, you’ll love St David’s 2. This huge shopping centre has everything you need for some retail therapy! Cardiff Bay is another great place to visit to soak up some sea air.

Recommended by: Rose, Where Rose Goes

The charming seaside town of Tenby may no longer be a hidden gem, but it’s without doubt one of the best places to visit in South Wales, whether you stay overnight or pass through during a Wales road trip .

Part of the charm of Tenby is the 13th-century city walls that run around the city. As well as an equally well-preserved castle, there are several beaches to enjoy. So you can relax with a good book or simply sample the local ice cream. 

For a bit of culture, you can visit Tenby Museum and Art Gallery (found at the castle). Or take a spooky ghost tour to learn about the town’s history spanning back a century! On a sunny day, take a walk along the coastal path to Monkstone Point. Finally, why not catch a ferry over to Caldey Island, still maintained by local monks?

Recommended by: me!

The second biggest city in the country, Swansea lies just along the coast from Cardiff, smack-dab in the middle of the South Coast of Wales. So it’s brilliantly poised for exploring the stunning nearby coastline!

This small seaside city is definitely one of the best places to visit in South Wales. A stunning beach, a compact and walkable city centre, and plenty of amazing local food and drink to discover… what more could you want?!

Don’t miss Swansea Market, one of the largest covered markets in Europe. This is the perfect place to try some of the top-notch local produce. Literature fans should also make sure to visit the Dylan Thomas museum and his house in Cwmdonkin. And, of course, there’s the gorgeous beach at Swansea Bay – perfect for watersports.

Skirting the England/Wales border, the Wye Valley AONB follows the meandering River Wye on its journey down to the Severn Estuary. It’s an area known for dramatic limestone gorges, picturesque woodlands, and historic hillforts.

The lush, leafy valley is a paradise for walking, cycling, and horse riding. Not to mention rock climbing and caving for the more adventurous! And, of course, the River Wye is perfect for canoeing and kayaking – especially the smooth, glassy stretch between Monmouth and Tintern.

Recommended by: Kat, Wandering Bird

The Gower is a peninsula near Swansea – and one of the most beautiful places in Wales. It’s so picturesque that it was named the UK’s first Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in 1956. Yet Gower still remains a perfect holiday destination today.

This small peninsula is home to 30 beaches, many of them sandy. The beauty of the place is that no matter which direction the wind is coming from, you’ll almost always find a sheltered cove to enjoy. 

Gower is mainly about outdoor pursuits and, as well as swimming, paddling and rockpool searching, you can get involved in surfing, paddle boarding and even canyoneering (please do this with an appropriate guide).

There are plenty of hotels and BnBs to enjoy. But to really get into the spirit of Gower, grab a tent or camper van and stay on one of the  best camping and motorhome sites in south Wales.

Recommended by: Kavita, Kavey Eats

Abergavenny is a beautiful market town, often touted as a gateway to Wales, just 6 miles from the English border. Once the site of a Roman fort, it grew into a walled fortress town during Norman times, when the area was known as the Welsh Marshes.

Today, visitors appreciate the remains of Abergavenny’s medieval stone castle built in the 11th century. In the town centre, an impressive town hall building remains part of community life. It also houses the market hall where weekly food and antiques markets are held.

Other historic buildings include the Holy Trinity Church, the Priory Church of St Mary and a 16th-century tithe barn.

In more recent years, the town has become well known for its annual Food Festival. Held in the second week of September, it draws foodies from all over the country to attend talks and classes by the top names in cooking and food writing, and to shop from the huge selection of food and drink producers selling their wares.

Recommended by: Ben, Driftwood Journals

There is no prettier place to be on a sunny day in Wales than the charmingly higgledy-piggledy fishing village of Mumbles (or Mwmbwls in Welsh). Amble your way up Newton Road to explore the colourful shops and cutesy cafes. Be sure to stop by at the 12th-century Oystermouth Castle for commanding views over the sea and rooftops below. 

Stop for a pint at the legendary White Rose pub or stroll the promenade in search of ice-cream and strong Italian espresso. Spoiler: you won’t have to go far! Joe’s ice-cream parlour is the most famous, while Verdi’s, Castellamare and Forte’s serve up spectacular views of the Mumble Lighthouse alongside their luscious scoops.

Don’t miss the Victorian pier and historic lifeboat house. If you’re feeling energetic, hike the coast path round to Langland and Caswell Bay, which are among the most beautiful beaches on the Gower peninsula . Croeso i Gymru!

Recommended by: Angela, Where Angie Wanders

St Davids in Pembrokeshire  is a very special destination in South Wales. Not only is it the birthplace of the patron saint of Wales, St David, but also holds the title of the smallest city in the UK.

It’s a charming city. The main street is lined with independent retailers, coffee shops and traditional food and craft stores. And it all leads to St David’s Cathedral, the centrepiece of the city.

Inside the cathedral, a visit to the shrine of St David is a must. It’s said that three visits to St Davids is equal to a pilgrimage to Jerusalem! Next door to the cathedral is the Bishops Palace, mostly in ruins but still an inspirational place to have a look around.

A short walk or drive from the centre of St David’s, you will discover some of the most beautiful beaches in Wales. Relax at the beach, or take a boat ride to see the coastal wildlife.

Recommended by: Catalin, TravelTrained

Located between Aberthaw and Porthcawl, Glamorgan Heritage Coast is a 14-mile-long breathtaking coastline pampered with incredible views and stunning landscapes.

The best way to explore this incredible place is on foot or by bicycle. There are a few small villages around with good places to stop for food and drink.

If you decide to visit, make sure you will stop by the Lighthouse at Nash Point, St Donat’s Castle, and Holy Trinity Church. And be sure to sample the wine at Llanerch Vineyard or Glyndwr Vineyard. There is an app available where you can find 10 different Vale Trails.

Recommended by: Claire, Tin Box Traveller

A must-visit destination in Carmarthenshire in South Wales is Pembrey Country Park. It’s somewhere you can indulge in outdoor activities, enjoy a walk, or simply relax on the stunning eight-mile-long sandy beach. It also has a campsite, so you can kick back and stay for a while.

This 500-acre country park is a particular favourite with families. There’s a model railway, adventure playgrounds, toboggan run, and endless picnic spots. Sporty visitors have a choice of cycle trails, archery lessons and a dry ski slope.

Whatever you chose to do here you must spend some time on Cefn Sidan Beach. It’s one of Europe’s best, and comes with dune-backed golden sand and panoramic views across Carmarthen Bay. There’s even the odd shipwreck.

Find out more about Pembrey Country Park and more  things to do in Carmarthenshire .

Recommended by:  Alice from  Adventures of Alice

Located in the National Showcaves Centre in Wales, Dan yr Ogof is a system of intricate cave tunnels. They offer a unique underground experience suitable for any type of traveller, from couples to a family getaway. Situated just 15 miles southwest of Brecon, you can even make a weekend of your visit and camp onsite. They also have a campervan park and self-catering accommodation.

The National Showcaves Centre is actually a collection of three different caves: Dan-yr-Ogof, Cathedral Cave and Bone Cave. Dan-yr-Ogof was discovered in 1912, at the point where the river Llynfell comes out of the mountain.

You can walk along the beautiful passageways for just under 1km, passing some of the interesting formations. This includes the infamous “Rasher of Bacon”, the heavenly “Angel” and the “Alabaster Pillar”. This gorgeous natural wonder is one of the best places to visit in South Wales and you definitely won’t be disappointed!

Recommended by: Bart & Andy – The Jetset Boyz

No visit to South Wales is complete without a trip to Porthcawl. Three of Porthcawl’s seven bays hold Blue Flag status, with two being great surfing spots. Rest Bay offers consistent breaks, while Coney Beach offers perfect waves for beginners.

If you want to catch your thrills out of the water, head to the Coney Beach Pleasure Park for all the fun of a traditional fair at Wales’ cheapest amusement park.

One of Porthcawl’s claims to fame is that it hosts the world’s biggest Elvis Festival . Every year in late September, the town welcomes 35,000 visitors and a host of Elvis impersonators from around the world for a weekend dedicated to The King. The event has been named by Time Out as one of the “40 best things to do in the world”.

Recommended by: Anna, Really Wildlife

Located off the coast of Pembrokeshire, Skomer Island is one of the best places in south Wales to visit if you’re a nature lover. To reach it, take a 15-minute boat journey from Martin’s Haven – and make sure you have your camera ready! 

Once on the island, you’ll see incredible birdlife, including razorbills, guillemots and the largest known concentration of Manx shearwaters in the world. But the biggest draw of Skomer Island is its population of over 20,000 puffins who nest, breed and raise their young on the island.

These adorable birds treat visitors to close-up sightings as they land home from sea with mouths full of sand eels to feed their pufflings. 

Travel along Skomer’s walking trails to take in the puffins’ various nesting sites, as well as cliffs and beaches full of seals too.

Recommended by: Maja, Away with Maja

Hay-on-Wye is a small, quaint town in the Wye Valley, just next to the English border. Known as the “Town of Books,” one of the main reasons people visit is to peruse the numerous bookstores – there are over 20 here! A few of the best ones to check out are Richard Booths, Addymans Books, and the honesty bookshop outside Hay Castle.

Time your trip around the Hay Festival , a literature and arts festival that takes place around the end of May.

If the weather is nice, take a walk out to the Warren, a pretty meadow just outside of town, or hike up Hay Bluff for beautiful scenery. If you’re interested in the outdoors, Hay-on-Wye is also close to the Brecon Beacons National Park . So it makes an ideal stopping place on a visit to South Wales.

Recommended by: Anuradha from Country Hopping Couple

Pembrokeshire Coast National Park is one of three national parks in Wales, and the smallest among the  national parks in UK .  With a wide variety of landscapes ranging from sandy beaches to rugged cliffs to moorlands, the Pembrokeshire coast offers endless opportunities for outdoor adventures. 

As an undisputed coastal national park, Pembroke Coastal Path National Trail spans over 186 miles of stunning coastline in Britain. Starting from St Dogmaels in the north to Amroth in the South, the trail is punctuated with blue flag beaches, limestone cliffs, red sandstone bays and rugged volcanic headlands. Not to forget the thriving habitats it creates for an array of flora and fauna.  

One of the best ways to experience Pembrokeshire Coast is to put on your welly boots and go for a coastal walk. There are myriad circular and linear walking paths to choose from.  Some of the popular beaches include Barafundle Bay, Broadhaven, Poppit Sands, Tenby and Whitesands Bay. 

Recommended by: Larch, The Silver Nomad

The majestic ruins of Tintern Abbey in  Monmouthshire   sit overlooking the River Wye on the boundary between Wales and England. Founded on 9th May 1131 by white-robed Cistercian monks, it was the first Cistercian church in Wales.

Tintern Abbey started life as simple timber buildings which progressed into a stone church and cloisters. In 1269 building of the new abbey church was started funded by the Marcher lords’ patronage. Although the new Abbey was consecrated in 1301 construction did not finish for several decades.

In August 1536, Tintern became one of the casualties of King Henry VIII’s English Reformation of the churches and the gothic Abbey slowly declined into ruins it is today.

Walking around Tintern Abbey, you cannot help but marvel at the architecture and grandeur. The ruins are accessible to visitors and you can walk around cloisters, nave, infirmary and kitchens, though some areas are being renovated.

A small town on the Tâf estuary on Carmarthen Bay, Laugharne is best known for being the home of Wales’ most famous English-language poet, Dylan Thomas. Thomas once described it as the “strangest town in Wales”, but he was fascinated by Laugharne.

The Boathouse , where Thomas spent the last few years of his tragically short life, offers up incredible views of the estuary and the Gower beyond. Today, its a heritage centre – and there’s also a tearoom and art gallery. So you can visit to learn a little more about the writer – and enjoy some of the views which inspired him!

While in Laugharne, you should also visit the ruins of the 12th-century Norman castle, and head into the estuary to enjoy the local wildlife. The area is perfect for birdwatching, especially in winter when there are flocks of wading birds feeding on the mud flats.

Recommended by: Heather, Conversant Traveller

Cardigan Bay stretches from Bardsea Island in Gwynedd, all the way down to Stumble Head in Pembrokeshire. It’s a beautiful part of Wales, with hidden coves, sandy beaches, and coastal paths to explore on foot or by bike. Some of the best  glamping sites in Wales  can be found near Cardigan Bay too, so it’s a great place for outdoor adventure holidays.  

Get the adrenaline pumping with a sailing or kayaking tour of the bay, while you keep your eyes peeled for dolphins jumping through the waves.

Back on shore, there are several golden sand beaches to discover, from the sunny stretch at Aberporth that is popular with families, to the secret cove at Mwnt which also has a small clifftop chapel. For colourful Georgian houses and delicious seafood, head up to the charming harbour town of Aberaeron. Or for some culture visit the 12th-century castle in historic Cardigan.

One of the South Wales Valleys, the Vale of Neath encompasses the upper reaches of the River Neath. The valley is known for its stunning scenery and numerous waterfalls. There are several waterfall walks and trails to explore the area, from the easier walks such as Aberdulais Falls to the more challenging trails around Sgwd Gwladys at Pontneddfechan.

Don’t miss a trip to the 12th-century Neath Abbey, or the 14th-century castle in the town of Neath. Neath town centre, with its thriving indoor market and great foodie scene, makes an ideal base for exploring the Vale.

READ MORE: 11 Best Things to do in Neath Port Talbot

Fans of the beloved British sitcom Gavin and Stacey won’t want to miss a trip to Barry Island! Known for its retro seafront and Pleasure Park, Barry Island featured pretty prominently in the show.

But Barry is about more than Gavin and Stacey! The island has attracted visitors since the 1870s, so it’s a great spot to visit while in South Wales. Expect the quintessential British seaside holiday at Barry! Visit the golden sands of Whitmore Bay beach, lined with brightly coloured beach huts. Play a round of adventure golf, and – of course – enjoy the thrills of Barry Island Pleasure Park.

Ideally placed between Brecon Beacons National Park and Cardiff the Welsh Capital, Merthyr Tydfil is one of the best places to visit in South Wales. Especially because this is the home of the Brecon Mountain Railway , a heritage steam railway running from Pant to Torpantu.

A journey on board the classic steam train will take you into the Brecon Beacons National Park, along the full length of the stunning Taf Fechan Reservoir.

In Merthyr Tydfil town, the spectacular Cefn Coed Viaduct once formed part of the same railway. Today, it’s part of the Taff Trail on the National Cycleway. So you can bike across the viaduct’s fifteen arches for some stunning views!

Last, but not least, on this list of the best places to visit in South Wales, we have Caerphilly. Famed for its incredible 13-century castle – as well as for the crumbly cheese of the same name – the town of Caerphilly sits at the southern end of the Rhymney Valley. 

Caerphilly Castle dominates the town. The largest castle in Wales, and the second-largest in Britain, this is also one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country.

The imposing lakeside fortress spans some 30 acres, filled with massive walls, gatehouses, and towers. Including the ‘the Welsh Tower of Pisa’; a wonky medieval tower with a serious lean!

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6 thoughts on “23 of the Best Places to Visit in South Wales”

Hi Emily, I was just so amazed after reading this post about south wales, Basically, I was just seeking the best place to visit in South Wales. I wish could get there this year. Thank You for this amazing information sharing with us!

Thanks so much Ashkay!! Hopefully you do manage to get there soon :)

Very informative well done for capturing the best of the best In S Wales.

Thank you so much!

This is wonderful! I’ve been planning to visit South Wales from the US, and now more than ever. If I were to take in all 23 attractions/sites, how long of a trip should I plan? I was originally planning 2+ weeks.

Wales is fairly small so I think you could cover a lot of the south in 2 weeks. As an example driving from Cardiff to St Davids only takes about 3 hours. If you’ll be driving, you can get around to most of these places pretty easily and combine a few into one day. I’d suggest at least 2 days in Cardiff, 2 in the Brecon Beacons, 2-3 on the Gower and 2-3 on the Pembroke coast. If you plan on doing any hiking or full day activities you’ll want more time.

Hope that helps :)

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Things to do in South Wales: a guide for visitors

South Wales is a beautiful part of the world where there are lots of things to see and do. From hiking in the stunning Bannau Brycheiniog National Park to exploring the capital city of Cardiff, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Easy to explore via road or the rail network, it’s the perfect destination for a day trip, weekend break or a longer holiday. 

1.  Hiking in the Bannau Brycheiniog National Park

Wales is fortunate enough to have three National Parks within its borders, and along with Eryri in North Wales  and the Pembrokeshire coastline, the glorious Bannau Brycheiniog are a nature lovers’ paradise. 

Named for the warning fires that were lit across the hills whenever invasion was a threat, the Bannau Brycheiniog include the Black Mountains and Pen y Fan, the tallest mountain in South Wales, with its peak 886 metres (2,907 ft) above sea level. Formed from the easily recognisable Old Red Sandstone, the dramatic colour is due to the presence of iron oxide, and seams can be spotted on the open cliff faces from a great distance. 

The hills are known for their vast abundance of flora and fauna, including red kites, horseshoe bats, and the beautiful purple-flowered saxifrage. There’s even a herd of wild ponies. The park also has a wide range of activities for visitors to enjoy, including night-time stargazing, touring the caves that lie beneath the hills, or guided climbs to encourage everyone to get out and experience nature at its very best.  

• Location: 13 miles from Merthyr Tydfil station
• Enjoy the great outdoors
• Bannau Brycheiniog website

2. Explore Cardiff

The Welsh capital of Cardiff lies in the country’s southeast corner, and it combines a vibrant, cosmopolitan culture with a rich and varied history. Offering a vast range of activities and attractions, it’s easy to find the perfect way to spend the day. 

For adrenaline junkies, head for Cardiff Bay where you’ll find the International White Water centre . Try white water rafting, paddle boarding or kayak your way around a gruelling obstacle course, before recovering at one of the many cafes and bars around the waterside. If culture is your thing, the Wales Millennium Centre offers a packed programme of events, from art shows to stand-up comedy to live music, while the city’s many museums showcase fascinating collections of artefacts - both international and locally sourced.  

• Fun for all the family
• Shop till you drop
• Soak up the local history

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3. Visit Swansea and the Gower Peninsula

Swansea and Gower are a must-see for any traveller. With its rugged coastline, pristine beaches, and rolling green hills, the Peninsula is designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Ringed by pristine golden sands, the environment is rich and diverse and brings wild, rugged moorland, dramatic cliff faces, and wooded glens together with a wide variety of animal and bird species. These include marine mammals such as seals, and dolphins, along with gannets, kestrels and the rarely seen chough.

The nearby city of Swansea and its headland, the curiously named Mumbles , are well worth a visit. Jam-packed with local charm, the name is said to have come from the French for ‘the breasts’ - les mamelles, in reference to the two island mounds that make up the headland. An alternative source is a corruption of the word ‘mamma’ or mother after a local river goddess.   Swansea is warm and welcoming, with the Grade II listed Cathedral Church of Saint Joseph at its spiritual heart, while the remains of the 12th-century castle occupy the physical heart. Both should be on any visitor's must-see list. The Welsh poet, Dylan Thomas used to work for the South Wales Daily Post which, in the 1930s was housed in one of the castle’s remaining rooms. A museum dedicated to his life and works can be found nearby.  

• Designated an Area of Outstanding National Beauty
• Spend a day on the stunning beach
• Lots to explore

4. Take a ride on Blaenavon's Heritage Railway

Blaenavon's Heritage Railway is a 5.6 km (3.5 miles) standard-gauge heritage railway. Run by keen volunteers, the route begins south of Blaenavon and travels along the edge of the Bannau Brycheiniog National Park, through the Blaenavon World Heritage site. 

Carrying passengers, the railway operates both steam and diesel engines and has a full programme of popular events throughout the year. These include Santa trips at Christmas, steam train galas and spooky ghost hunting tours at Halloween. Big and little kids alike will love the excitement of travelling on these wonderful old trains.

• Free parking
• Blaenavon's Heritage Railway website

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5. The Vale of Neath

The Vale of Neath is home to waterfall country . Start your adventure at Pontneddfechan where you’ll find details of how to find such landmarks as Sgwd Gwladys, Melincourt Falls, Aberdulais and Sgwd yr Eira, on the fringes of the Bannau Brycheiniog National Park.

Penderyn Distillery is based in the small rural village of Penderyn in the Cynon Valley. It is the first Welsh whisky producer since the 19th century and has won awards for its less-is-more approach to producing quality single malts. Penderyn Visitor's Centre has tours, tasting sessions and masterclasses, as well as an exhibition of whisky-making in Wales.

Another must-see natural attraction in the Vale of Neath is Dan yr Ogof . The National Showcaves Centre for Wales is full of stalagmites and stalactites, as well as many magnificent passages and chambers. You can also see over 200 life size dinosaurs, discover fossils that are millions of years old and visit the iron age village. 

For those that love the outdoors, then the Vale of Neath is a must-do because the quality of the mountain biking trails of Afan Forest Park in Neath Port Talbot draws visitors from all corners of Britain. You can bring your own bikes or hire them to try out the six trails - ranging from Blue to Black. There are many other attractions besides, including walks through the beautiful, calming forest trails, and the South Wales Miners Museum. 

• Family fun 
• Explore the great outdoors
• Museums and heritage sites

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6. Royal Mint Experience

You can explore 1100 years of history at the Royal Mint, a great day out for all the family especially if the weather isn’t too good. It’s your chance to find out how coins are made and watch the money-makers at work when you experience the fascinating guided factory tour. There is also an interactive exhibition that lets you follow the lifecycle of a coin from design to distribution, with plenty of rare coins and medals for you to look at.

• Great for history lovers
• 20 minutes away from Pontyclun train station

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7. Big Pit National Coal Museum 

Coal mining is a huge part of Wales’ history. Big Pit National Coal Museum offers a fascinating insight into the lives of the miners and the work they did on this site in the South Wales Valleys. Get kitted up with a miner’s helmet and battery pack then travel 300 feet (100 metres) underground to find out what being down the mines was like. There’s an on-site exhibition to stroll through and there are often events and workshops to take part in. It’s a great day out for all the family.

• Children welcome
• Has accessibility facilities
• Pet friendly

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8. St Fagans National Museum of History

Standing on beautiful grounds on the outskirts of Cardiff, St Fagans Museum is one of Europe's leading open-air museums and Wales's most popular heritage attraction. It is a people’s museum where you can explore history in over 50 original buildings from different locations in Wales that have been re-built. Each building is frozen in time and offers a fascinating insight into Welsh history. It really is a lovely day out for all the family. 

• St Fagans National Museum of History website
• 2 miles from Waun-Gron Park Station
• Booking for events available 

9. Brecon Mountain Railway

No visit to South Wales is complete for railway enthusiasts without a trip to the Brecon Mountain Railway. The railway was built on a section of the old Brecon and Merthyr railway. The Brecon and Merthyr railway opened in 1863 to join the towns to the docks at Newport. It was a rural line crossing the remote Bannau Brycheiniog. The old line closed in 1962.

You can visit the workshops and learn more about the restoration of steam locomotives and carriages. There are also some lovely tearooms and a children’s play area. 

• Great fun for the entire family
• Beautiful landscape 
• Brecon Mountain Railway  website

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10. Margam Park

Nestled in the hillside above Port Talbot, Margam Park is a great family day out with historic buildings, walking trails, play parks and water-based adventure. There are deer roaming freely around the grounds and hundreds of acres of parkland to explore. There’s also a regular programme of events so check out what’s on before you plan your visit.  

• Family fun day
• Children's Fairytale Village

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10 unmissable places to visit in Wales

Sep 25, 2021 • 5 min read

From the hills of Brecon to the dramatic coastlines the Gower, Wales has tons of beautiful places to visit © Roy JAMES Shakespeare / Getty Images

With three epic national parks , reams of beach-studded coastline, an underrated capital and more chocolate-box villages than you can shake a love spoon at, small but mighty Wales has a wealth of locations worth adding to your itinerary.

Planning a Welsh adventure but not sure where to start? Be inspired by our selection of the best places to visit in Wales .

Move over Bassey, forget it Tyler – with effortless beauty, an undeniable flair for the dramatic and the X factor that attracts devoted fans in their millions, you could call Snowdonia National Park the ultimate Welsh diva. Beyond its famous peaks, you’ll find ancient forests, sparkling waterfalls, historic mining towns and fairy-tale castles. Are you a thrill seeker? If so, there’s plenty to get your adrenaline pumping, from white water rafting to ziplining over the world’s largest slate quarry and surfing on an inland lagoon.

Pembrokeshire

Popular Pembrokeshire – the most westerly county in Wales – is home to some of the country’s finest beaches, a plethora of pretty seaside towns and the UK’s smallest city, St Davids . The entire coast is a national park, best explored with a hike along the Pembrokeshire Coast Path or on a coasteering tour – the cliff-scrambling sport was born right here. Lovers of wildlife won't want to miss a trip to Skomer Island, where thousands of puffins gather to raise their young come summer, while Harry Potter fans will want to make a pilgrimage to Dobby’s final resting place, Freshwater West beach. If you’re an ancient history buff, don’t miss Pentre Ifan , a prehistoric tomb hewn from the same bluestone used at Stonehenge.

Brecon Beacons 

The undulating hills and quaint villages of Brecon Beacons National Park are an irresistible draw for nature lovers and walking enthusiasts, not least because of the park’s proximity to the major towns and cities of South Wales – Cardiff, Swansea and Chepstow are all less than an hour away. Top hikes include Pen-y-Fan (come mid-week during school term time to beat the crowds) and Sugarloaf Mountain. The region is also an International Dark Sky Reserve – a dream for budding astronomers – so bring your binoculars for a spot of stargazing.

Portmeirion 

Is this Wales or the Italian Riviera? The brainchild of eccentric architect Sir Clough Williams-Ellis, Portmeirion is unlike anything else you’ll see in the UK , thanks to its hodgepodge of pastel-colored Mediterranean-style buildings and manicured gardens complete with giant chess board and golden Buddha shrine. But despite its commercial theme park-esque leanings, this curated “village” will soon win you over, especially if you stay to watch the sunset over the Dwyryd Estuary. 

Cardiff has all the trappings you’d expect of a cosmopolitan city – great nightlife, vibrant culture and a burgeoning indie food scene – but it all comes in an unusually green and compact package. Wander along the River Taff in Bute Park , picking up a coffee and decadent orange brownie at the Secret Garden Cafe ; catch a musical at the Wales Millennium Centre (nicknamed “the armadillo” thanks to its copper-colored curves); browse for bargains in the capital’s Victorian shopping arcades; or tour the ornate rooms and grounds of Cardiff Castle . Whatever you do, you’ll be met with a warm Welsh welcome.

Hay-on-Wye 

For a wholesome weekend away, look no further than Hay-on-Wye. This charming market town sits snugly between the River Wye and the English border, just north of the Brecon Beacons. It’s known for its annual Hay Festival , a literary extravaganza headlined by big-name authors featuring readings, writers’ workshops and book signings. But there’s still plenty to do year-round if you can’t make the festival. Peruse the abundant antique markets and secondhand book stores, hike to Hay Bluff via Offa’s Dyke Path or opt for a spot of wild swimming at The Warren, a pebble beach on the river bank. 

Slow travel comes with a historic twist in Llangollen, a compact, culture-packed town in North East Wales. A heritage steam train trundles between Llangollen and Corwen daily from February to October, and the town is a popular launchpad for hiking the ancient national trail, Offa’s Dyke Path. Don’t miss a trip to Pontcysyllte Aqueduct : towering 125ft (38m) above the River Dee, this spectacular World Heritage Site is the highest canal aqueduct ever built and can be traversed by foot, canal or even kayak. For a livelier time, visit in July, along with 120,000 other people, to attend the International Musical Eisteddfod and Fringe Festival.

Gower Peninsula 

The UK’s first designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), this 70-sq-mile (180 sq km) peninsula is renowned for its dramatic coastline and fabulous beaches. Following the south coast west from Swansea and the Mumbles , you’ll find a smattering of family-friendly bays (try Caswell and Langland for starters) backed by heather- and gorse-clad cliffs. Three-mile-long Rhossili Bay Beach dominates the peninsula’s west coast, spoiling visitors with broad golden sands, rolling surf and coastal walking trails peppered with ancient ruins. It’s worth saving time for a walk to Worms Head – the rocky promontory at the southern end of the beach – but keep an eye on the tides to avoid ending up stranded.

The Isle of Anglesey has two obvious claims to fame: it’s where the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge lived in the early years of their marriage, and it’s here you’ll find the village with the longest place name in Europe: Llanfair­pwllgwyngyll­gogery­chwyrn­drobwll­llan­tysilio­gogo­goch (a selfie next to the train station’s expansive sign is a tourist rite of passage). But the real magic is found along Anglesey’s coast (another AONB), whether you’re hiking the Wales Coast Path to bird-spotting heaven, South Stack Cliffs RSPB Reserve ; stand up paddleboarding on the Menai Strait; or lounging on Llanddwyn beach, a curve of pale sand backed by Corsican pines with views of Snowdonia. Beaumaris – with its Unesco-listed castle – makes a fine base from which to explore.

Machynlleth

This unassuming market town on the southern border of Snowdonia National Park is something of a cultural powerhouse. Once the capital of Wales (freedom fighter Owain Glyndŵr was crowned Prince of Wales here in 1404), today travelers come for the Museum of Modern Art and the increasingly popular Machynlleth Comedy Festival , which takes place each May. Save time for a day at the mostly open-air Centre for Alternative Technology , where you can learn about sustainable ways of living.

You might also like: The 10 most beautiful hikes in Wales The UK's longest mountain bike trail for beginners is now open How to spend a weekend in Anglesey, the eco-friendly island loved by William and Kate   

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Discover South Wales

Southern Wales has a lot to offer whether you are looking for a city break, relaxing on the beach or a more adventurous action packed activity holiday we have it all!

Here you will find everything you need to plan your perfect visit. 

Where To Stay

Across the region you will find a wide variety of accommodation from 5 star hotels to small family run B&B's deep in the glorious countryside.

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You'll never be short of things to do or places to go in Southern Wales. Have a look at what we can offer you.

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We have gathered all the most useful information for visitors including details on travel, such as getting here and getting around.

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11 Best Places In South Wales To Explore

Wales is one totally stunning country to explore, with a huge heap of beautiful spots to see across the country. That being said, it’s sometimes overlooked when exploring Great Britain in light of its bigger sisters, England and Scotland. Honestly, there’s a huge amount of the best places in South Wales that are dotted right from the border with England to the shores of West Wales . 

This is exactly why I wanted to share some of my very favourite and some of the best places in South Wales to visit on your next trip. 

Now, the train network is much more extensive in South Wales (than any other part of the country), though, I’d still say to hop in a car if you fancy a good explore without any limitations. Although not necessary, I do think a car makes exploring Wales that bit easier. 

Anyway, I’m rambling on now! Take a look, below, at some of the best places in South Wales to visit on your next trip! Have the best time. 

1.) Brecon Beacons National Park

The Brecon Beacons is probably the most accessible national park to visit in South Wales. Perched about a seventy-five-minute drive from central Cardiff, it’s really easy to visit for a day away from the city (or in its own right. 

Once here, make sure to explore beautiful spots like; Pen y Fan, see Llyn y Fan Fach (a pretty isolated lake area) and explore the stunning countryside.

Now, if you’re really up for a challenge, follow the ninety-nine-mile long Beacons Way hiking trail.

It’s easily one of the best places in South Wales to explore if you love a good ramble. though, just make sure to take some comfy shoes… it’s a trek! 

Read more: Best places in the Brecon Beacons to visit

For me, the Gower Peninsular is probably one of the most diverse natural areas of Wales and a totally stunning spot to explore whilst in the area. Only around 30-minutes from Swansea, it’s really easy to visit for a day from the city itself.

As you explore, make sure to stop off at Three Cliffs Bay, Rhossili Bay and Worms Head. If you’re feeling extra energetic, head out for some stand-up paddleboarding within the bay area, itself. 

Also, don’t forget, you can easily partner a trip to the Gower Peninsular with Mumbles (as they’re right next to one another).

Read more: Best beaches in Wales

3.) Caerphilly

Now, one of the most famous buildings in Caerphilly has to be its Castle. This is easily one of the best places in South Wales to visit if you love history (and castles for that matter). This place is particularly famous for its own leaning tower, which is totally unique to see and well worth a good wander around.

Over the last few hundred years, Wales has had quite a strong connection with Italy, especially with the immigration of Italian people back in the 18th and 19th Century. This all means one thing, there are a good few spots for good gelato and Italian food, even to this day. 

For me, Volare, an Italian eatery located on Cardiff Road. Start with their fresh mussels sautéed in garlic and chilis before moving onto a plate of al dente pasta. Yum! 

Read more: Best castles in Wales to see

4.) Tintern Abbey

Another spot that’s right on the border with England, Tintern Abbey is pretty magnificent to see. Although in ruins, it is totally dramatic and very similar to that of Whitby Abbey in the north of England . 

Once here, take a ramble around the grounds, follow the border down to Chepstow to see it’s castle and historic town.

It’s a really easy spot to visit and one of the best places in South Wales to explore if you’re close to the border. 

5.) Cardiff

Of course, the capital city has to be included as one of the best places in South Wales to visit. 

Although a relatively small city, Cardiff has heaps of history, culture and lots to see and do for a weekend away. Once here, make sure to visit Cardiff Castle, see the Gothic Architecture and rooms that are just out-of-this-world and head over to Margam Park for a little trip back in time.

Although just out of the city centre, it’s a great place to spend a day exploring the historic buildings in Wales.

For a tasty bite to eat, head over to the Clink Restaurant. They have a yummy Welsh lamb shank. Plus, if you’re looking to stay (down by the Bay) check into Voco St David’s which also has one of the best spas in the city. 

Read more: The best things to do in Cardiff

6.) Mumbles

Nestled upon the shoreline of Swansea Bay, Mumbles is one of the best places in South Wales to visit and somewhere I’ve visited over twenty times over the years. 

It’s pretty small, picturesque and has a laid-back charm about it that just makes it perfect to visit on a sunny day. Once here, you can visit the ruins of Oystermouth Castle, which was founded by the Normans in the twelfth century. Today, you can explore the grounds and castle itself, which has its own chapel as well as paintings and other artwork dating back to the castle’s medieval heyday.

As for the village itself, Mumbles is full of independent shops as well as pubs which serve lots of local brews. For the best of the best, be sure to visit Copperfish, which has some of the freshest and pretty reasonably priced dishes, too.

For me, I’d always go with the classic fish fry, with a choice of haddock, cod or hake. Though, the crispy fried salt and pepper prawns are just so good, too. 

7.) Cardigan

Cardigan is a pretty sleepy little town on the coast of South-West Wales (just shy of Pembrokeshire ). Filled with quaint little cottages, lovely beaches and lots of walking routes across Cambrian Coastal Path, it’s easily one of the best places in South Wales to visit. 

Once here, make sure to visit Cardigan Castle, which dates back to the twelfth century and now has some newly-opened restaurants and cafes within the old grounds.

Alternatively, head over to Tresaith (a tiny little village) for some pub grub at the Ship Inn and a walk to find the Waterfall into the sea. 

Read more: Best places in Wales to explore

8.) St. David’s

St. David is probably one of the smallest cities in the UK, but don’t let its size put you off visiting… it’s easily up there as one of the best places in South Wales to explore if you love our amazing history. 

Once you’ve arrived, make sure to visit  St. David’s Cathedral, which not only functions as a shrine, but also a museum that is pretty epic to see.

Also, be sure to stop by Farmer’s Arms for an authentic Welch pub experience, complete with friendly locals, and a tasty yet pub menu offering everything from smoked mackerel pie and salt to pepper squid. After gorging, continue exploring Bishop’s Palace, visit Whitesands Bay and see St Non’s Chapel and Holy Well.

Read more: Best places in Pembrokeshire to visit

9.) Carew Castle 

Situated inland from the gorgeous town of Tenby , Carew Castle is really easy to visit if you’re already in the area and a perfect little spot to spend an hour or two on your road trip across Wales . 

Once here, take a wander around Carew Castle, explore the grounds and spend some time exploring the Pembrokeshire coast of South Wales.

That being said, if you’re up for some thrills, pop on over to Oakwood Theme Park which’s only ten minutes up the road. It’s got one of the largest wooden-rollercoasters in the UK. 

10.) Hay-on-Wye

Situated right on the border with Wales and England, Hay-on-Wye is one small little village. Though don’t be fooled by how small it is, it’s a book worm’s dream stop in South Wales. 

Known for its many independent bookstores and literary festival (usually in May), Hay-on-Wye is easily one of the best places in South Wales to visit if you’re a total book lover, hence its nickname, the book town of Wales. 

Still, to this day, Tenby is one of my favourite little towns in all of Wales. Perched in the south-west of the country, it’s a great spot to spend a few days, especially in the summer months. 

Dating back to the thirteenth century (with its town walls), as well as stunning stretches of sandy beaches, it’s easily one of the best places in South Wales to visit. 

Now, If you are looking for a little more history, you can even book a boat passage to nearby Caldey Island, which is magnificently preserved and maintained by a local monastery.

It’s an island that’s steeped in history and pretty easy to visit by boat in the summer.  

Oh, and for a tasty bite to eat, stop off at the Stables Restaurant who have some of the tastiest lobster. 

Read more: Best places in Tenby

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7 Best Places to Visit in South Wales – The Valleys

By: Author Amanda OBrien

Posted on Last updated: 17/02/2024

The Valleys region of South Wales has received some major tourism investment in recent years as it regenerates. A key barrier to this regeneration was removed last year with the scrapping of the road toll on the M4 which meant everyone had to pay to get into Wales.

The Valleys region in South Wales has outstanding natural beauty – something for which Wales is known. What is unique about this region is its coal mining past which ended in the 1980s.

Now, what were mining sites have been turned into interesting and quite cutting edge tourist attractions. It now offers many fantastic days out in South Wales.

Most importantly many of the sites of this region – both old and new – make for some very instagrammable places to visit in South Wales.

7 Best Places to Visit in South Wales

1. the welsh mining experience.

When it comes to fun places to visit in South Wales, the place you cannot miss in The Valleys is the Welsh Mining Experience .

Someone very clever was responsible for turning what was once one of the most important coal mining areas in the world into a major tourist draw. I never would have thought I would find mining life so interesting.

The Welsh Mining Experience is held at the Rhondda Heritage Park. The park was once the Lewis Merthyr Colliery. Two mining pits opened in what is now the park in the 1850s.

The Coal Industry enjoyed steady production and employment until alternatives started to become available in the 1950s. Production ceased at the Lewis Merthyr Colliery in 1983.

The site itself now holds several buildings as well as the engine rooms. The visitor’s centre at the Welsh Mining Experience has been beautifully constructed.

There are mock-ups of what the butcher’s shop would have looked like, a chocolate shop that just uses local ingredients – as does the very Bracchi café which is on-site.

The only real way to experience the park is to take the Black Gold Experience Underground Guided Tour. This tour seeks to bring the experience of working in the coal mines back to life.

The Welsh Mining Experience has even employed former miners to lead the tours and they are fantastic characters. They share their personal stories of working in the mines as well as the history – and they are very amusing.

The site itself is very photogenic with the last coal wagon, the Chimney Stack, steel structures and loads more.

The guide provides an overview of the site and there is a visit to the engine rooms. Next up is a visit to the original lamp room. This is where miners picked up their lamps and hats for their shifts.

At this point, we were all given a hat to wear and this was, of course, the perfect opportunity for a photograph.

Then it is time to head down the mine. In the day the mines were 420+ metres underground – take the rather large Chimney Stack, times it by 10 and add another 30 metres and that is how far down.

The tour only goes down 30 metres. Indeed, they used former miners to create the area underground for the tour. The tour started in 1989.

The highlight of the Welsh Mining Experience for me was the memorable details provided by the guides. The canary cage.

The steel boxes used for lunches – anything that wasn’t that strong would get eaten by the rats and mice underground.

Tales of the cats of the mines who were fed nothing but the rats and mice they caught. This is where this tour really comes to life.

Once the lift has landed it is time to walk through the tunnels and really feel what it may have been like to be underground.

It is difficult to comprehend how humans were able to spend so much time underground particular whilst doing such physically demanding work.

This South Wales tour finishes with a fantastic immersive 3D video experience that is not to be missed.

As is lunch or cake at the lovely Bracchi cafe. This lovely cafe is a major step above the usual tourist attraction restaurant – particularly the cakes.

⇒ Check out more Reviews of the Welsh Mining Experience

2. Visit Llancaiach Fawr Manor

Another fantastic use of modern tourism trends to bring another time to life. Experience 1645 in the beautifully restored Llancaiach Fawr Manor House . The fire is roaring and the table is set.

The building itself dates back to the 1550s and was owned by the Prichard Family. All the furnishings in Llancaiach Fawr Manor are accurate reproductions of the 16th and 17th centuries. It is now one of the best places to visit in South Wales UK .

⇒ Save Time – Book your Llancaiach Fawr Manor Tickets

The majority of the tour was three different actors playing different types of servants from the time. They were brilliant. Such a good use of old fashioned language but done in a way that everything was clear.

Their style is very interactive and they ask many questions of the audience such as whether we were lucky enough to have our own indoor privy. You won’t forget how the tale of how they managed their own dental upkeep.

Again, very entertaining storytellers. I love how these tourism sites are using the natural storytelling abilities of the Welsh and turning what could be standard destinations into memorable experiences.

The grounds of Llancaiach Fawr Manor South Wales are also quite beautiful. There is a lovely small maze in front of the house as well as a pond and the Walled Gardens.

The Visitor Centre also includes a coffee lounge and boutique gift shop.

Best of all Llancaiach Fawr Manor has been ranked in the top ten haunted houses in Britain. Guided tours are also held at night to share the tales of the staff and visitors and look for a few ghosts.

3. Caerphilly Castle Floodlit

Caerphilly Castle is the largest castle in Wales and the second largest in Britain behind Windsor. This not quite complete castle is surrounded by moats and watery islands – even better for photos.

Caerphilly Castle South Wales was built between 1268 and 1271 by Gilbert “The Red” – a hair thing. The castle is rather famous having appeared in the BBC Series “Doctor Who” and “Merlin”.

A unique way to experience the castle is seeing it floodlit in the evening – and combining it with some great food. Casa Mia is opposite the castle and has some amazing views plus some great food.

We visited on a Saturday night and it was obviously the place to be in Caerphilly as it was packed and humming.

I enjoyed prawns by two with a king prawn starter followed by pasta with prawns. Both were excellent.

Casa Mia South Wales has an amazing view of the castle and makes the most of it with a wall of windows. Do call ahead and see if you can book one of the tables by the window.

Alas, through glass is not the best way to take a photo. I took this shot downstairs on a ledge by the edge of the moat. I sat the camera down on the ledge to minimize shake and got quite a nice shot I think.

4. Enjoy a Gellihaf House Afternoon Tea

Gellihaf House is an absolutely lovely boutique bed and breakfast that also does a fantastic home-made afternoon tea on the weekends.

Set in two acres of beautiful gardens and grounds, this is my kind of boutique property. The gardens are beautiful as you can see in these shots.

The delightful owners of Gelihaf House South Wales invested their blood sweat and tears in making this beautiful old building a comfortable and modern boutique experience.

Neither had any experience in the hospitality industry – which makes what they have created even more special.

Gelihaf House Wales opened in 2017 and has three beautifully styled rooms with the best of modern facilities. And then there is the afternoon tea at Gelihaf House.

Everything is homemade. Everything. The scones were wonderfully flaky. Even the very tasty millionaires’ shortbread and tiny eclairs were homemade.

All the sandwiches were delicious but the prawn was without a doubt my favourite. And look at this jam. I feel like this is a jam porn shot.

5. The Side of the Road

OK it isn’t exactly a place but one of the best places to get shots for Instagram in the Valleys Wales is literally stopping the car by the side of the road (when it is safe of course).

I visited South Wales in March and there were daffodils everywhere – and even some cherry blossoms. Best of all there were not just sheep but loads of super cute little lambs.

It appears they weren’t used to being celebrities based on their wide-eyed expressions in this photo.

I imagine it must be dramatic in winter and super colourful in Autumn along these roads. There are also loads of cute houses, gates and wider views for great photos.

Keep an eye out for where you can pull over, good light and interesting welsh things to photograph.

6. Parc Slip Nature Reserve

Continuing with the theme of regenerating the areas that were devoted to mining, the 300-acre Parc Slip Nature Reserve was an opencast coal mine.

Tragically, an explosion in 1892 took the lives of 112 men and boys – virtually wiping out a generation in this small area.

In 1989 the land was transformed into Parc Slip nature reserve. It is now home to some of Wales’ rarest wildlife as well as many badgers, foxes, butterflies and other creatures.

There are several hides throughout the reserve that can be visited for some nice photographic captures.

In the summer there are apparently wildflowers everywhere (and a dedicated wildflower valley) and there is a field of sunflowers – although I quite like my shot of the relics of sunflowers past.

There are 10km of walking tracks and 4km of cycle and bridle paths for horses at Parc Slip Nature Reserve South Wales.

It is a beautiful area and so easy to explore. Plus the visitor centre at Parc Slip has an excellent cafe that serves some great looking cakes and good coffee.

Parc Slip Nature Reserve is one of those places where there will always be something to see no matter what time of the year it is visited.

The Reserve is open 24/7 all year round and entrance is free. So it is perfect for a free day out in South Wales.

7. Woodlands Bistro

Lovely Woodlands Bistro is a genuine hidden gem. This lovely restaurant is part of a community project and has the most stunning views across The Valleys.

The restaurant at Woodlands Bistro (and bunkhouse which can be rented out) is on 37 acres of lovely land.

I had a fantastic Sunday Roast at the Woodlands Bistro which offered a choice of lamb or beef (there are vegetarian options available as well).

I was lucky enough to visit on a sunny day and the views – as you can see – were rather magnificent.

⇒ Heading to London? Check out my posts on 13 Unusual Experiences in London , the best London Food Tours , my virtual London Travel Blog , some great Earlsfield restaurants , 14 Things to do in Notting Hill , restaurants near Clapham Junction and Victoria Station restaurants , 16 Famous Landmarks in Europe , a mad hatter afternoon tea party and a day trip to Brighton , 67 Fascinating Facts about London , 18 Landmarks of London from a local, 15 Places to see Sunsets in London , 9 Places to watch the Sunrise in London , 10 Bridges in London Not to Miss and Cotswolds tour from London options.

How to get to Places to Visit in South Wales The Valleys and Around

So where is South Wales The Valleys? If you are heading to The Valleys from overseas flying into London will be the best option.

Heathrow is the best airport in terms of location as it is located just outside West London and Wales is West of London .

⇒ Flights to London

The closest domestic airport is Cardiff which is in Wales. Cardiff airport gets some overseas flights and of course domestic flights but it is most likely to require connections.

⇒ Flights to Cardiff

Cardiff is easily accessible from most of the UK by train.

⇒ Click here if you live outside the UK and would like to buy a great value BritRail Pass before heading to the UK.

⇒ Also for overseas visitors only is the amazing value Cadw Explorer Pass which provides entry to over 100 historic sites in Wales.

⇒ If you live in the UK Book Train Tickets here.  

⇒ No matter how you get to The Valleys the area really requires a car to get around.

Boutique Hotels in South Wales The Valleys

There are quite a few interesting and lovely boutique sleeping options in this area. I stayed at the very conveniently located Heritage Park Hotel . It is virtually next door to Rhondda Heritage Park.

I was a bit concerned that it might lack charm when I originally drove past it but as you can see I had a lovely room with all the facilities I could have wanted.

I also had a fantastic breakfast at the Heritage Park Hotel in the morning – scrambled eggs and salmon.

This was one of several hot breakfast options – I was quite impressed with the options available. It is a fantastic value for money option.

⇒ Read more reviews on TripAdvisor ⇒ Book Now

For a quintessential boutique hotel experience, it would not be possible to go past Gellihaf House which I mentioned above. I didn’t stay there but I did see all the rooms and they were absolutely gorgeous.

For something different but a little farther away stay in a Mongolian style yurt at Cwm Tawl Yurts.

Or for a genuine luxury experience try out Lanelay Hall , Llechwen Hall or Miskin Manor Hotel.

Who Paid for What in this Blog Post

Thanks to The Valleys Tourism Board for Hosting my stay. This means that they covered the cost of the hotel, activities and meals. I did pay for the car hire.

But as always all the opinions are mine. Just so you know – if you click through on most of the links in this blog post and make a purchase I will receive a small commission.

READ NEXT: 12 FUN THINGS TO DO IN CARDIFF

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Amanda O’Brien is the creator and editor of The Boutique Adventurer. She has visited 80 countries and is a member of the British Guild of Travel Writers as well as the IFTWTA. She is passionate about wine had has just completed Level 3 of the WSET. Born in Australia, she lives in London.

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Thursday 11th of April 2019

Of all the Instagrammable places in The Valleys, taking snapshots (and if one dares, selfies) with those cuddly sheep and cute little lambs would be the highlight of any trip!

Friday 5th of April 2019

I have always wanted to visit Wales and your picture just make that move even higher on the bucket list priorities.

Omg so many awesome places to visit in wales!!! I really do hope my travels take me there one day. Would love to visit!

David Elliott

Thursday 4th of April 2019

I made it out to the UK once, but the stupid thing is a lot of my ancestry is from Wales and I didn't make it out there when I was in the UK. There looks like there is so much for me to see. I really need to get back there someday soon.

The pictures are gorgeous. Instagram worthy indeed! I love the boutique hotels described above. Hope to visit these places!

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Days out in South Wales: hidden gems you need to visit!

By Discover More UK

Published: 13 September 2022

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The beautiful coastline of South Wales with an abundance of beaches, towns, activities and attractions makes it ideal for planning epic days out in South Wales, or adding these locations to your existing South Wales or Pembrokeshire Coast itinerary.

With a few hidden gems in South Wales included in this list, this is a guide to help you make the most of places to go in South Wales for a day out, whether you’re a local or a visitor to the area.

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission if you click a link and purchase something. While clicking these links won’t cost you anything, they will help us to keep this site up and running! See the full disclosure policy for more details.

The best days out in South Wales

Castle coch.

Looking like something straight out of a fairytale, Castle Coch is a 19th century Gothic castle located just outside the village of Tongwynlais.

The castle is around 20 minutes from Cardiff, making it a great option for a day out from Cardiff or even an idea for days out near Newport, South Wales.

A castle has been on the site since the Norman period, around 1081. Now Castle Coch is a stunning castle complete with turrets, a drawbridge and some of the most stunning interiors I’ve ever seen in the UK.

The ceilings of many of the bedrooms, the chapel and living spaces are ornate and decorated in detailed paintings with gold detailing.

Tickets cost £8.30 per adult as of writing and include an audio guide for your self-guided tour of the castle.

There’s also a tea room cafe and giftshop.

It’s also important to note that the car park is free and there’s a grassland area surrounding the castle, perfect for picnics and letting the kids play if you want include the castle in one of your family days out in South Wales too.

Merthyr Mawr

This village is a real hidden gem in South Wales, located just 10 minutes outside Bridgend, it’s also an ideal day trip from Bridgend.

It’s also a great option if you’re looking for free days out South Wales has to offer – no parking charges, tickets or entrance fees here!

Merthyr Mawr is a charming village full of colourful thatched cottages which are very picturesque to wander around if you enjoy that sort of thing!

If you park in the village car park by the Swing Bridge, you can also go for a paddle in the stream here, or cross over the Swing Bridge and go for a walk along the trail here.

The trail leads you across the river on some stepping stones and out towards the nearby Ogmore Castle ruins to explore.

Rhossili Bay Beach and wildflowers

This stunning beach is at the end of the Gower Peninsula – a must visit area of South Wales, and is easily reached by car from Swansea or Cardiff.

There’s a large National Trust car park which is £4 or free for members. There are also shops, cafes and restaurants nearby so you can easily spend a fun day out in South Wales here.

Head down the beach path to enjoy the sands, picnic, swim, paddle board or boogie board.

Or you can walk along the coastal path and enjoy the panoramic views of the bay with the dramatic green cliffs and hills behind it.

The tide goes out a long way here, so the beach is huge at times, but be aware of the tide coming back in quickly.

The real South Wales hidden gem here are the flower fields along the cliff path towards the end of the peninsula.

If you turn left out of the car park and follow the cliff path with the beach on your right, you’ll reach a PYO sunflower field and wildflower field (of course only in bloom and open during the summer months).

This is a beautiful area to enjoy a whole family day out in South Wales or perfect for romantic days out in South Wales, with flower mazes, a sunflower swing in the sunflower field, adventure trails for children to follow and pick your own sunflowers and wildflowers.

Wormhead Tidal Island

You can also reach Wormhead tidal islands from Rhossili Bay Beach by following the same cliff path towards the wildflower fields but continuing on until you reach the coastal lookout at the tip of the peninsula.

You’ll see the islands just off the South Wales coast and at low tide, there’s a causeway visible which you can walk across to reach and explore the island.

A Tidal Island is an island which is possible to walk to when the tide is out. This means you need to stay aware of the tide times which are published on the board at the Coastguard station lookout at the top of the causeway each day.

Culver Hole

The ultimate South Wales hidden gem is Culver Hole.

Culver Hole is the stuff of legends, with a fascinating and captivating history of smuggling myths and legends, this bizarre stone wall built into a cliff shaft creates a unique and eerie shelter complete with doors and windows.

Believed to have originated from the 13th century as a dovecote, Culver Hole obviously then played host to countless smuggling stories of piracy and looting. It’s believed there are secret access tunnels in the structure too.

You can climb down to the beach to see and go inside Culver Hole, but only at low tide – so please stay away from tide times if you want to go down and explore!

The walk itself to Culver Hole is a lovely easy trail along routes popular with dog walkers. The route is behind the Skysea Caravan and Camping Site and Port Eynon and the walk offers views of Horton Bay.

After your time exploring Culver Hole and the cliff way to reach it, why not make a day of it and enjoy the beach at Horton Bay where there are also plenty of nearby shops and cafes.

This is a free day out in South Wales with just the parking at the beach to pay for, making it one of the best free days out in South Wales.

St Govan’s Chapel

Another spectacular hidden gem in South Wales and possibly one of the most unique places to visit in South Wales too!

St Govan’s Chapel is another unique stone structure tucked into the rocky crevices of the Pembrokeshire Coast.

The chapel is built into the limestone cliff at St Govan’s Head and can be reached by a series of stone steps down, you can even explore inside!

Enjoy a leisurely walk along the cliff path out to the head of the peninsula.

The car park is free here so it’s another great option for free days out in South Wales and along the Pembrokeshire Coast.

Blue Lagoon

For the adventurers among you, the Blue Lagoon is a disused quarry located close to Abereiddy, perfect for days out in South West Wales.

Park at Abereiddy Beach (£4) and follow the short 10 minute coast path along the cliffs until you reach the Blue Lagoon.

It’s a popular spot for sea kayakers, cliff jumpers and climbing enthusiasts. You’ll see plenty of people braving the plunge by jumping off the cliffs on the opposite side into the vibrant blue water below.

Take your beach gear, paddleboard or kayak and enjoy a day swimming in this unique pool, or head over to the beach for a dip in the sea and some refreshments from the food truck there.

If you like Tenby but you’re looking for somewhere a bit quieter and off the beaten path in South Wales, then Aberaeron on the west coast might be for you!

This colourful town is perfect for a relaxing stroll around the harbour, grabbing some fish and chips, wandering around the shops and independent stores in the town or exploring the National Trust Georgian Villa at Llanerchaeron.

Caldey Island boat trip from Tenby

No visit to South Wales is complete without a trip to Tenby! And taking a boat trip is one of the best things to do while you’re in Tenby.

Get your tickets from the booth at the entrance to Tenby harbour and you can take one of the boats that run regularly out to the island between Easter and October. Boats run every 20-30 minutes but the island is closed on Sundays. Find out more here

This holy island is still home to monks to this day, you can visit old priory and churches in the village but not the Abbey or the monastery. Spend time exploring the village, enjoy the stunning beaches and coastline and go walking to soak up the stunning views.

Tenby breweries and foodie stops 

Of course Tenby is popular for its family friendly beaches and beautiful location on the Pembrokeshire Coast, making it a popular base for a holiday in South Wales . But it’s also a great spot for food and drink lovers.

In particular, if you’re looking to discover some of the best breweries in Wales, there are two breweries in Tenby you need to visit.

Tenby Brewing Co has a great location at the Tap & Tan bar and restaurant where the street food kitchen is spectacular too! You’ll find them situated in the food quarter in The Mews in an idyllic courtyard, perfect for outdoor drinks on a summer evening.

Also check out Harbwr Brewery, tucked down an alleyway by the harbour, this brewery has soared in popularity and it’s mismatched seating lines this charming, colourful alleyway, creating a scene that looks like you’re somewhere in Italy rather than Wales!

Famously known as the smallest city in Britain, St Davids makes a great option for days out in South Wales for adults and children alike!

Located on the south west coast, St Davids is easily walkable and you can spend a day out in Wales here, exploring the markets, visiting the spectacular cathedral, sampling the food and drinks at the local eateries or heading to nearby Whitesands Bay for a family day out at the beach.

There are several car parks in the town which are all pay and display, but other than that, you can spend as much or as little as you want exploring the city.

The cathedral is free to visit and the market takes place in the square every Thursday from March to October.

Whitesands Bay

You could visit Whitesands Bay as part of a day trip to St David’s, or you could spend a whole day at this stunning beach.

Whether you’re looking for days out in South Wales for couples or perhaps more child-friendly days out in South Wales for families, this easily accessible beach can be reached by car or bus.

Parking is £4 for the day and you can also reach the bay via the Coast Path if you’re planning a walk.

A good portion of the beach stays dry, even at low tide, so it’s ideal for families.

The views of the bay and the coast are absolutely stunning.

Ramsey Island

If you’re looking for fun, adventure days out in South Wales, check out Ramsey Island, an RSPB nature reserve which is perfect for days out in South Wales for adults.

There’s a huge range of wildlife sightseeing boat trips, from puffins to Dolphins. See the famous Skomer Island or go seal spotting or simply enjoy one of the walking routes on the island.

Ramsey Island is one of the best days out in South Wales and the island really is a nature lovers dream!

Cult Donuts

Okay this isn’t a day out, but it is a great hidden gem in South Wales, tucked away on an industrial estate in Bridgend!

These freshly made donuts are some of the best we’ve ever tried, with incredible flavours from Biscoff and Cherry Bakewell to FAB lolly or blueberry cheesecake.

They have a really cool store with neon lighting, pink and black decor, great coffee and indoor and outdoor seating.

Definitely a stop to swing by if you’re in the area!

Of course you can’t not mention Cardiff for days out in south east Wales!

Visit Cardiff Castle, see the Cardiff Central Market, stroll along Cardiff Bay and see the Pierhead Building or go shopping in the vibrant independent shops in the city’s many charming shopping arcades.

For bad weather days, the National Museum Cardiff and the shipping arcades are great options for indoor days out in South Wales if the weather has turned on you!

Cardiff also has a great selection of chain and independent eateries to enjoy.

Cardiff Breweries

Another day out for adults in South Wales is enjoying the breweries and taprooms the city has to offer!

We loved how many independent craft beer spots in Cardiff we found!

If you’re a craft beer fan, check out these Cardiff breweries:

• Brew Monster Tap House
• Mad Dog Brewery
• Tiny Rebel Cardiff

Summary: South Wales days out and South Wales hidden gems

Hopefully this guide has given you plenty of ideas and inspiration for places to add to your South Wales itinerary, whether you’re looking for days out for adults, couples or the whole family.

As well as some popular spots, there are also plenty of off the beaten path places in South Wales and some spectacular Welsh hidden gems to uncover – we hope you enjoy them!

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Politics latest: Keir Starmer accused of 'rank hypocrisy' by Rishi Sunak after setting out what he'll do to tackle small boat crossings

Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer lays out his party's plans to try and tackle small boat crossings if it wins power. Listen to the latest episode of the Electoral Dysfunction podcast as you scroll.

Friday 10 May 2024 18:30, UK

• Starmer says small boat crossings 'one of the greatest challenges we face'
• Explained: What's in Labour's plan to try and tackle problem
• Darren McCaffrey: Will Labour's plan cut it with voters?
• Starmer says no flights to Rwanda will take off under Labour
• Sunak accuses Starmer of 'rank hypocrisy'
• Electoral Dysfunction:  Jess Phillips says Elphicke defection like 'being punched in gut'
• UK exits recession | Economy 'returning to full health'
• Faultlines:   Can British farming survive?
• Live reporting by Tim Baker

Across the UK, anger is brewing amongst some farmers.  

Protests have already been held in London, Dover and Cardiff, with more planned - mirroring similar tensions seen across Europe in the last six months.     

They say they’re annoyed about cheap foreign imports and changes to subsidies forcing them to give up land in favour of environmental schemes.    

But what does this mean for the food on our table - and does British produce risk becoming a luxury product for the wealthy only?    

On the Sky News Daily , Niall Paterson is joined by West of England and Wales correspondent Dan Whitehead to find out why farmers are so concerned, and speaks to Liz Webster, the founder of Save British Farming, about why she believes eating British isn't just good for our farmers - it's good for the nation's health, too.   

In response to our report, Farming Minister Mark Spencer, said: "We firmly back our farmers. British farming is at the heart of British trade, and we put agriculture at the forefront of any deals we negotiate, prioritising new export opportunities, protecting UK food standards and removing market access barriers. 

"We've maintained the £2.4bn annual farming budget and recently set out the biggest ever package of grants which supports farmers to produce food profitably and sustainably."

The Welsh government said: "A successful future for Welsh farming should combine the best of our traditional farming alongside cutting-edge innovation and diversification. 

"It will produce the very best of Welsh food to the highest standards, while safeguarding our precious environment and addressing the urgent call of the climate and nature emergencies."

👉  Listen above then tap here to follow the Sky News Daily wherever you get your podcasts   👈

Following the defection of the Dover and Deal MP Natalie Elphicke to Labour, Beth, Ruth and Jess discuss the surprise move and whether it could have been handled differently by Sir Keir Starmer.

They also talk about Beth's interview with the former immigration minister Robert Jenrick and his warnings about Reform UK.

Plus, how significant was the defeat of former Conservative mayor of the West Midlands Andy Street? Beth and Jess were both there to tell the story.

And they answer a question on Labour and the Muslim vote, and what the party can do to restore confidence and trust.

Email Beth, Jess, and Ruth at [email protected] , post on X to @BethRigby, or send a WhatsApp voice note on 07934 200 444.     

👉 Listen above then tap here to follow Electoral Dysfunction wherever you get your podcasts 👈

In January 2023, Rishi Sunak made five promises.

Since then, he and his ministers have rarely missed an opportunity to list them. In case you haven't heard, he promised to:

• Halve inflation • Grow the economy • Reduce debt • Cut NHS waiting lists and times • Stop the boats

See below how he is doing on these goals:

The Sky News live poll tracker - collated and updated by our Data and Forensics team - aggregates various surveys to indicate how voters feel about the different political parties.

With the local elections complete, Labour is still sitting comfortably ahead, with the Tories trailing behind.

See the latest update below - and you can read more about the methodology behind the tracker  here .

Speaking to Sky political editor  Beth Rigby , Sir Keir Starmer has defended his decision to allow Tory MP Natalie Elphicke into Labour.

Ms Elphicke was on the right of the Conservative spectrum, and previously defended her sex-offender ex-husband, comments which she apologised for this week following her defection.

Addressing Tory voters, Sir Keir says he wants Labour to be a "place where they who have ambitions about their families, their communities, their country, can join and be part of what we are trying to build for their country".

Asked by Beth if he was ruthless, Sir Keir said: "Yes, I'm ruthless in trying to ensure we have a Labour government that can change this country for the better.

"Not ruthless for my own ambition, not ruthlessness particularly for the Labour Party - I'm ruthless for the country. 

"The only way we'll bring about a change in this country is if we're ruthless about winning that general election and putting in place a government of public service, that’ll be a major change.

"Politics, I believe, should be about public service, that's what I've been about all my life."

More now from political editor Beth Rigby's interview with Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer.

She reminded him that he previously ruled out doing a deal with the SNP - but has not done so for the Liberal Democrats.

Sir Keir again ruled out a coalition with the SNP - adding that he is aiming for a "majority Labour government".

He says Labour needs "to keep working hard, keep disciplined and getting our message across, which is something fundamental to me".

Pushed on his lack of ruling out a possible agreement with the Lib Dems, Sir Keir says: "I'm going for a majority.

"That's the answer I gave you a year ago. It's the same answer I'm giving you now."

Sir Keir Starmer was earlier today pushed on whether Rwanda deportation flights will take off if he was prime minister - although it was not clear if he would cancel flights which had already been organised.

Sky News understood that previously booked deportation flights to Rwanda would still go ahead if Sir Keir entered Number 10. 

But the Labour leader has now gone further.

Speaking to political editor Beth Rigby , Sir Keir has ruled out any flights taking off.

"There will be no flights scheduled or taking off after general election if Labour wins that general election," he says.

He says: "Every flight that takes off carries with it a cheque to the Rwanda government. 

"So I want to scrap the scheme - so that means the flights won't be going."

Sir Keir says he would rather spend the money on his own measures to counter small boats.

"No flights, no Rwanda scheme. It's a gimmick," he says.

By Alix Culbertson , political reporter

Scotland's new first minister has told Sky News that the controversial gender recognition reforms "cannot be implemented."

John Swinney,  who became first minister this week , has faced questions over his stance on gender recognition after MSPs voted in 2022 to pass a bill to make it simpler for people to change their gender without having to obtain a medical diagnosis.

The UK government blocked the bill from being made into law and the Supreme Court rejected a request by the Scottish government for a judicial review.

Asked if he would be fighting to push the bill through, Mr Swinney told Sky News: "The reality of the situation we face is that the Supreme Court has said that we can't legislate in that area. We can't take forward that legislation."

The UK economy is no longer in recession, according to official figures.

Gross domestic product (GDP) grew by a better-than-expected 0.6% between January and March, the Office for National Statistics (ONS) said.

Economists had predicted the figure would be 0.4%.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said it showed the economy had "turned a corner".

He told Sky News's Ed Conway: "I am pleased that while there's more work to do, today's figures show that the economy now has real momentum, and I'm confident that with time, people will start to feel the benefits of that.

"We've had multiple months now where wages are rising, energy bills have fallen, mortgage rates are down and taxes are being cut... I'm pleased with the progress that we're making."

Mr Sunak added: "I am confident the economy is getting healthier every week."

You can read more here:

Rishi Sunak has criticised Sir Keir Starmer's position on Rwanda as "rank hypocrisy".

Speaking to broadcasters, the prime minister says the Labour leader has announced things the government is "already doing".

He gives the example of "punching through the backlog, having more law enforcement officers do more, that's all happening already".

"We've announced all of that more than a year ago," the prime minister adds.

"The question for Keir Starmer if he cares so much about that, why did he vote against the new laws that we passed to give our law enforcement officers new powers? 

"They've now used those to arrest almost 8,000 people connected with illegal migration, sentenced them to hundreds of years in prison.

"And if it was up to him, all those people would be out on our streets, so I think it's rank hypocrisy property of his position."

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